Darwin Nunez: Liverpool aiming to minimise losses from record signing amid Saudi interest | OneFootball

The Uruguayan managed just five League goals as Liverpool cruised to the title last season

Liverpool are hoping to secure a fee of at least £59million as they look to offload misfiring striker Darwin Nunez this summer.

The Uruguayan played 30 matches as Liverpool cruised to the Premier League title this year, but was responsible for just five of their 86 goals.

He was a club record signing when he moved from Benfica for £85m in 2022 and has struggled under the weight of the price tag.

Their valuation is said to be based on a January bid received from Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr, who offered £59m. Liverpool will not sell for less than that.

Al Hilal contacted the club earlier this week to discuss the terms of sale, and could look to complete a deal following the Club World Cup. Nunez is thought to be interested in a move to either Spain or Italy, but has not ruled out a Saudi switch.

Liverpool are linked with Bayer Leverkusen forward Florian Wirtz and are reportedly close to completing a deal for the German forward, but may look to sign a replacement striker should Nunez leave. They are said to be fighting Chelsea for Hugo Ekitike’s signature and hold an interest in Newcastle’s Alexander Isak.

Arne Slot was less than impressed with Nunez this season, publicly criticising his work rate.

Speaking after benching Nunez for a trip to face Manchester City in February, he said: “I wasn't only hard on him. But for the second time in a row I wasn't happy with his work effort, against Wolves and against Villa.

"I can't accept if a player doesn't give everything. That is clear. I can accept it once but twice was a bit too much. That's why I addressed it.”