From Anfield to Arabia: Darwin Nunez dumps Liverpool for shock Al Hilal move

Liverpool’s €85 million signing, Darwin Nunez, has officially joined Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal in a surprise transfer valued at around €53 million plus bonuses, marking the end of his three-year spell at Anfield.

The 26-year-old Uruguayan forward, who arrived from Benfica ahead of the 2022-23 season, made 143 appearances and scored 40 goals for Liverpool before completing the move to the Saudi Pro League giants.

Nunez, who has been unveiled by the club according to their social media account and as reported by Liverpool, had an immediate impact at Anfield, scoring on his competitive debut to help the club lift the FA Community Shield.

He managed a total of 40 goals and 26 assists during his tenure, but his form dipped in the 2024-25 season, finishing with just seven league goals under new manager Arne Slot.

Despite Napoli's long-standing interest, it was Al Hilal who matched Liverpool's asking price, offering Núñez a fresh start under a highly-regarded management team in Saudi Arabia.

Liverpool had previously rejected a €70 million offer from Al Nassr earlier in the season as they focused on winning the Premier League title, which they secured with Núñez playing a vital role, including scoring crucial stoppage-time goals.

This summer, as Núñez sought more playing time and a new challenge, Liverpool accepted Al Hilal’s offer.

For Liverpool, Núñez’s departure means the club is now seeking a replacement striker. They have already signed Hugo Ekitike and pursued Newcastle’s Alexander Isak with an initial £110 million bid.

The transfer also reflects Liverpool’s strategic squad rebuilding as they aim to sustain their competitive edge following their recent domestic success.

For Núñez, the move to Al Hilal presents an opportunity to reboot his career away from the intense scrutiny of the Premier League, in a league investing heavily to attract top international talent.

At 26, he remains in his prime years and will look to rediscover his best form to reignite his trajectory as a top forward.