Liverpool have granted Darwin Núñez permission to negotiate a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, with the club close to finalising a fee for the Uruguay international. The 26-year-old, who started eight Premier League games last season, is the subject of an offer worth an initial £46m plus add-ons, though the final structure has yet to be agreed.
Liverpool paid an initial £64m to sign Núñez from Benfica in 2022, with add-ons potentially taking the deal to a club-record £85m. The Premier League champions have been looking to recoup about £60m for the forward, who has struggled to adapt to Arne Slot's system. Al-Hilal's offer falls short of that figure but is expected to be accepted if Núñez is open to the transfer.
Milan and Napoli were also interested in the centre-forward but were deterred by the finances involved. Liverpool rejected a £60m bid from Al-Nassr in January as they prioritised winning the title. Núñez could meet Al-Hilal officials at their training camp in Germany and may still feature in Sunday's Community Shield against Crystal Palace if the deal is not completed.
A transfer would push Liverpool's income from player sales past £250m since Richard Hughes became sporting director last summer. The club recently sold Tyler Morton to Lyon for £15m and could also offload Harvey Elliott and Federico Chiesa. Liverpool have invested nearly £300m on new players this summer, including a £110m bid for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak.
