Darwin Núñez looks increasingly likely to leave Liverpool this summer, with incoming striker Hugo Ekitike set to lead the line under new head coach Arne Slot.
Núñez, 26, is attracting interest from Juventus, while earlier links to Napoli fell through after they opted to sign Lorenzo Lucca instead. With Paris Saint-Germain refusing to lower demands for Randal Kolo Muani, Juve may now prioritise the Uruguay international.
As per Football Italia, Liverpool are willing to discuss a loan with obligation-to-buy — a structure that suits Juventus' current financial planning.
Why Darwin Núñez Could Be on His Way Out
Despite moments of brilliance, Núñez has struggled to fully settle since his move from Benfica in 2022. New boss Arne Slot appears ready to reshape the forward line, with Ekitike’s arrival from Eintracht Frankfurt imminent.
Núñez recently bagged a hat-trick in a 5-0 win over Stoke City behind closed doors but his inclusion in Liverpool’s tour squad for Asia doesn’t necessarily indicate long-term plans.
“Liverpool are open to a loan with obligation — Juventus are seriously considering it as Kolo Muani talks stall,” said a source close to the player. — Football Italia
Darwin Núñez Stats (All Competitions – Liverpool Career)
| Season | Games | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 48 | 15 | 5 |
| 2023/24 | 52 | 17 | 7 |
| 2024/25 | 43 | 8 | 3 |
| Total | 143 | 40 | 15 |
Could Juventus Beat Atlético & Saudi Clubs to the Deal?
Juventus are not alone in the race. Atlético Madrid and clubs in Saudi Arabia have reportedly expressed interest, but Juve’s search for a Kolo Muani alternative has pushed Núñez higher up their shortlist.
With Dusan Vlahovic still at the club, a final move depends on outgoings — but with Liverpool’s asking price near £54m (€63m), a structured loan deal could break the deadlock.
Analyst Verdict: Sell Now or Wait?
Slot wants to reshape the attack and simplify Liverpool's pressing structure. Núñez, while dynamic, hasn't always fit cleanly into tactical systems. If Ekitike’s arrival is finalised, Núñez will likely fall further down the pecking order.
A loan with guaranteed sale value protects Liverpool’s finances and provides the player a new platform — but a late hijack from elsewhere can't be ruled out.
Key Insights
- Liverpool willing to accept loan + obligation-to-buy for Darwin Núñez
- Juventus exploring deal after failed PSG talks for Kolo Muani
- Hugo Ekitike’s arrival to push Núñez out of Arne Slot’s plans
- Napoli dropped out after signing Lorenzo Lucca
- Núñez has 40 goals in 143 games for Liverpool
What’s Next?
Juventus may return with a formal offer within days. Ekitike’s medical at Liverpool is expected this week, which could trigger the final decision on Núñez. Atlético and Saudi clubs are monitoring closely, but Juve are best positioned — for now.
Should Liverpool move Núñez on — or give him one final season under Arne Slot?
2 Comments (last comment by JamesLove)
First read message
By JamesLove 22 Jul 2025 11:14
Just keep him. It’s not like Liverpool have 4 strikers… he seems to be sharp during the pre-season games.
By Adem 22 Jul 2025 11:12
He has it in him - it would be a huge mistake for Liverpool to sell him. One more season, if not, then sell.
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