Liverpool has confirmed the sale of striker Darwin Nunez to Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal in a deal that could reach £56 million with add-ons. The Uruguay international leaves Anfield after three seasons, boosting the club’s summer transfer funds amid a busy window in 2025.
This move comes as Liverpool aims to refresh their squad following a title-winning campaign last season. Fans and analysts have watched closely as the Reds balance big sales with new signings to stay competitive in the Premier League and beyond.
Breaking Down the Transfer Fee
Liverpool secured a guaranteed £46 million from Al-Hilal for Nunez, with up to £10 million more possible through performance-based bonuses. These add-ons tie to goals scored, team achievements, and other milestones in the Saudi Pro League.
The deal falls short of a £50 million offer from Al Nassr that Liverpool turned down in January 2025. Club officials prioritized squad stability during their push for the Premier League title, which they won convincingly.
Experts note that summer transfers often fetch lower fees than mid-season ones due to market dynamics. Napoli and AC Milan showed interest earlier this summer, but their bids did not meet Liverpool’s valuation.
Liverpool’s Summer Transfer Haul
This sale pushes Liverpool’s income from player departures past £181 million this window. If all add-ons across deals activate, that figure could climb to £202 million, giving the club ample room to invest.
Key sales include several high-profile names, helping offset spending on new talent. The Reds have committed £266 million to incoming players, including a £29 million agreement for goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili sealed last year.
Here is a quick look at Liverpool’s major outgoing transfers this summer:
- Darwin Nunez to Al-Hilal: £46 million (up to £56 million with add-ons)
- Other notable exits: Combined £135 million from midfielders and defenders sold to European clubs
- Potential total: Up to £202 million if bonuses hit
This financial boost supports Liverpool’s strategy to build a younger, more dynamic team for the 2025-2026 season.
Liverpool surprised some by not pursuing a swap or higher bid from Newcastle United, who need strikers badly. Logical reasoning suggests Newcastle’s own financial constraints under profit and sustainability rules played a role.
Nunez’s Journey at Anfield
Nunez joined Liverpool from Benfica in 2022 for a club-record £85 million, bringing high hopes with his speed and scoring ability. He netted 33 goals in 96 appearances, including key strikes in the Champions League.
However, inconsistency and adaptation challenges marked his time. Supporters loved his passion, but critics pointed to missed chances that sometimes cost points.
In the 2024-2025 season, Nunez contributed to Liverpool’s Premier League triumph, scoring 11 goals before the transfer talks heated up. His move to Al-Hilal offers a fresh start in a league growing with stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar.
From another perspective, some fans feel the sale comes too soon, given Nunez’s potential at 26 years old. Yet, the financial gain allows Liverpool to target proven replacements.
Chasing a New Striker
With Nunez gone, Liverpool eyes Newcastle’s Alexander Isak as their top target to fill the void. The Swedish forward impressed with 21 goals last season, making him a perfect fit for Arne Slot’s system.
The Reds had a £110 million bid plus add-ons rejected by Newcastle earlier this window. Talks could resume, especially with Newcastle needing funds for their own squad rebuild.
Other options include younger talents or proven Europeans, but Isak stands out for his pace and finishing. Liverpool’s scouts have monitored him closely since 2024.
| Potential Striker Targets | Current Club | Estimated Fee | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alexander Isak | Newcastle United | £110 million+ | Speed, finishing, versatility |
| Viktor Gyokeres | Sporting CP | £80 million | Physical presence, goal threat |
| Ivan Toney | Brentford | £60 million | Experience, aerial ability |
This table highlights why Isak leads the pack, aligning with Liverpool’s tactical needs.
Arne Slot’s Take on the Changes
Manager Arne Slot addressed the Nunez situation during a press conference ahead of the Community Shield match against Crystal Palace on August 10, 2025. He praised the squad’s depth and recent signings like Hugo Ekitike, who has shone in preseason.
Slot avoided direct comments on Isak, stating managers do not discuss players from other teams. He expressed confidence in the group’s ability to defend their title, even with departures.
The Dutch coach highlighted young talents stepping up, blending experience with fresh energy. This approach has entertained fans and solved depth issues from last season’s injuries.
From a broader view, Slot’s first full season at Liverpool starts with high stakes in the Community Shield at Wembley. A win could set a positive tone amid these transfer shifts.
Looking Ahead for Liverpool
Liverpool’s transfer strategy in 2025 reflects a club in transition, balancing sales like Nunez’s with ambitious buys. This window echoes their successful rebuilds in past years, such as after major titles in 2020 and 2022.
Related events include the ongoing Saudi Pro League expansion, attracting more European stars and boosting global interest. Nunez’s three-year deal with Al-Hilal, worth around €22 million per season, underscores the league’s financial pull.
Fans wonder if this sale signals more moves before the window closes on August 30, 2025. Logical next steps involve securing a striker to maintain attacking firepower.
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