Liverpool have given 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 only eight Premier League games last season, has struggled to adapt to Arne Slot's system, prompting the club to consider offers.
Al-Hilal's offer is for an initial £46m, plus add-ons, though the final structure has yet to be agreed. Liverpool initially paid £64m for Núñez from Benfica in 2022, with add-ons potentially taking the deal to a club-record £85m. The club had been looking to recoup about £60m, but rejected a similar bid from Al-Nassr in January to prioritise their title challenge.
Milan and Napoli were also interested in the centre-forward but were deterred by the finances involved. Núñez could meet Al-Hilal officials during their training camp in Germany, and he remains part of Liverpool's plans for the Community Shield against Crystal Palace on Sunday if the transfer is not completed.
A deal for Núñez would push Liverpool's income from player sales past £250m since Richard Hughes became sporting director last summer. The club has already sold Tyler Morton to Lyon for £15m and could also offload Harvey Elliott and Federico Chiesa, with Leipzig considering a move for Elliott and Chiesa potentially returning to Italy.
