Darwin Nunez is already seeking a route out of Saudi Arabia, mere months after his high-profile summer departure from Premier League champions Liverpool. The Uruguayan striker, 26, completed a £66million transfer to Al-Hilal but is reportedly unsettled despite a promising start on the pitch.
Striker Unsettled Despite Strong Start
Nunez's move to the Middle East followed Liverpool's title-winning campaign under Arne Slot. He has made a decent initial impact for Al-Hilal, scoring four goals and providing two assists in six appearances. His efforts have helped keep his side within four points of Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr at the top of the Saudi Pro League.
However, multiple reports indicate the forward is not content with life in Saudi Arabia. This speculation emerges despite a series of social media posts from Nunez himself that appeared to show him embracing his new surroundings after the lucrative transfer.
River Plate Plotting a Major 2026 Swoop
According to Argentinian publication Ole, South American giants River Plate are laying the groundwork for a major coup. The club is said to have allocated funds within their wage structure specifically for a move for Nunez ahead of the 2026 season.
Manager Marcelo Gallardo, who is planning a significant squad overhaul, is reportedly "keen" on bringing the former Liverpool star to Buenos Aires. The outlet claims initial contact has already been made with Nunez, who is intent on leaving Al-Hilal.
A Divisive Anfield Chapter Closes
Nunez's two-year stint at Liverpool proved divisive after his big-money move from Benfica. While he delivered crucial moments, most notably scoring twice against Brentford in the title run-in, he also faced criticism for inconsistent form.
Manager Arne Slot publicly defended the striker during a difficult period last December when he had scored only three goals in 19 games, praising his work-rate and impact. However, by February, Slot was forced to admonish Nunez for his reaction to missing a chance against Aston Villa, stating his behaviour "got too much in his head" and affected his performance.
Nunez ended his final season at Anfield with just seven goals from 47 matches across all competitions, prompting Liverpool to cash in on their initial investment during the summer window. His potential departure from Saudi Arabia would mark another swift chapter in a turbulent career trajectory.
