‘Done Deal!’ – Liverpool Reach ‘Full Agreement’ for 26-year-old Striker | OneFootball

Darwin Núñez Seals Al Hilal Switch As Liverpool Push On With Transfer Plans

Liverpool’s summer rebuild has taken another significant step with confirmation that Darwin Núñez will leave Anfield for Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal. Renowned journalist Florian Plettenberg has reported, “Darwin #Nunez to Al Hilal – DONE DEAL! Full agreement has been reached with Liverpool. Nunez has also given his green light. Contract until 2028. Medical will follow once the paperwork is completed. Top salary.”

This move, while long anticipated in some quarters, marks the end of a chapter for the Uruguayan forward, who arrived with great expectations but whose Anfield career has been a mixture of explosive moments and lingering frustration. Núñez, 26, departs after contributing goals, energy and unpredictability to Liverpool’s attack, yet he often divided opinion among supporters.

Major Sale Shapes Summer Strategy

Plettenberg described the transfer as “an important sale for #LFC”, reflecting not just the financial windfall but also the tactical implications for Arne Slot’s evolving squad. With Liverpool already having secured Giorgi Mamardashvili, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike, the club’s intent to refresh multiple areas of the pitch is clear.

Sources indicate that the funds freed up by Núñez’s departure will be channelled into two priority targets: Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak and a top-level winger, with PSG’s Bradley Barcola among those under serious consideration. One insider stated, “Liverpool are still working on a move for Alexander Isak and also want to sign a top winger.”

Saudi Move Reflects Growing Global Shift

The lure of Saudi football has become a recurring theme in recent transfer windows. Al Hilal’s acquisition of Núñez follows a series of headline arrivals in the Gulf, further demonstrating the region’s capacity to attract elite-level players in their prime with lucrative long-term deals. A contract through 2028 and “top salary” terms underline the financial scale of this agreement.

For Liverpool, it is also a case of acting decisively to move on players whose profiles no longer fully match the tactical approach Slot is putting in place. This proactive stance avoids potential value decline and provides immediate reinvestment opportunities.

Photo: IMAGO

Squad Dynamics Enter New Phase

With Núñez’s exit confirmed, Liverpool’s forward line will lean on Ekitike, Wirtz and existing stars, though a marquee striker signing appears inevitable. Isak is admired for his movement, finishing and ability to operate across the front line, while Barcola offers pace and directness from wide positions.

This is a pivotal point in Liverpool’s summer. Completing these attacking additions could set the tone for Slot’s second season, particularly after the tragic loss of Diogo Jota earlier this year. The club is keen to ensure depth and variety in attack, as well as sufficient quality to challenge on all fronts.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As Liverpool fans, this deal is bittersweet. Darwin gave us some unforgettable moments, from his brace against Southampton to that chaotic yet brilliant performance against Manchester City. He was raw, unpredictable and often frustrating, but he played with heart. There is sadness in seeing him go, yet also relief that the club are acting with purpose in the transfer market.

The reality is, Arne Slot needs a front line that can execute his structured, high-possession system with precision. Núñez thrived in chaos, but consistency was never his strong suit. If selling him allows us to bring in Alexander Isak, then it feels like a strategic upgrade. Isak’s intelligence and composure in front of goal would be a perfect foil for Wirtz’s creativity and Salah’s cutting edge.

Bradley Barcola is another name that excites. His directness would give us something we have lacked since Sadio Mané left. In the wake of losing Jota, having versatile forwards who can rotate seamlessly is vital.

We wish Darwin nothing but the best in Saudi Arabia. He will light up that league with his energy and character. For us though, it feels like the start of a sharper, more clinical Liverpool under Slot.