Liverpool: The Saudi Pro League is emerging as a potential destination for Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez this summer. BBC Sport understands that intermediaries are actively working to broker a deal for the Uruguay international to move to the Middle East. Al-Hilal, controlled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) and managed by Simone Inzaghi, is interested in acquiring Nunez.
According to BBC, there is uncertainty over whether the 26-year-old Nunez is prepared to leave European football at this point in his career. While Napoli and other European clubs have shown interest in him, the Saudi Pro League remains a viable option due to PIF's substantial investment in Al-Hilal. Additionally, PIF holds an 80% stake in Newcastle United, which recently rejected a £110 million bid from Liverpool for their forward Alexander Isak. Newcastle values the Sweden international at approximately £150 million.
Charlotte Robson, a Newcastle fan writer, expressed concerns to BBC Sport about PIF's priorities, stating that allowing another PIF-controlled club to benefit at Newcastle's expense has stirred discontent among fans. Robson suggested that fans would prefer Isak to remain with Newcastle and receive an improved contract.
Football finance expert Kieran Maguire told BBC Sport that Liverpool could afford to buy Isak even if Nunez stays. Despite Liverpool's active transfer activity, Maguire believes they could spend an additional £200-250 million while remaining within profit and sustainability rules. Liverpool has already spent around £265 million on new signings, while recouping £115 million from player departures.
Maguire dismissed speculation about a potential arrangement between Liverpool and PIF, stating there is insufficient evidence to support such claims. He suggested that Liverpool is likely to benefit more from the situation, as Newcastle is not inclined to sell Isak. Regarding Al-Hilal's interest in Nunez, Maguire noted that there are many strikers available, and Nunez's availability made him an attractive option.
Isak joined Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022 for £60 million and was the club's top scorer last season, helping them win the Carabao Cup. Despite reports in July about his desire to explore a move away from Newcastle, Isak has returned to training with the club. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe stated that Isak must "earn the right" to train with the squad again and confirmed that Liverpool had not made further contact following their initial bid.