Fabrizio Romano: Liverpool to ‘Continue Talks’ to Complete Deal Next Week | OneFootball

Liverpool Eyeing Osimhen as Napoli Talks Loom for Nunez – Fabrizio Romano Update

Liverpool’s summer transfer window has already turned heads, not just for its efficiency but for the strategic clarity behind each move. With Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz already through the door to cover the void left by Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure, the club has acted swiftly to fill creative and positional gaps. A potential deal for Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth is also well underway, aimed at bolstering depth at left-back, especially with uncertainty lingering over Andy Robertson’s long-term future.

Now, attention has turned to Darwin Nunez’s potential exit and what comes next in Liverpool’s search for a new frontman. Fabrizio Romano reports that the Uruguayan striker is Napoli’s “priority and dream target” this summer, with talks due to continue next week.

“Darwin Nunez remains Napoli’s priority and dream target as centre striker. The club won’t advance/close on different options until they’ve a chance to get Nunez. Talks will continue next week in order to understand how/if transfer fee and salary can be feasible.”

No deal for Isak, so what’s next?

While Alexander Isak is widely admired by Liverpool’s recruitment team, Newcastle United’s current position makes a deal unlikely. With Champions League football secured for the 2025/26 season and no immediate pressure from PSR constraints, the Magpies have little incentive to part ways with their prized Swedish striker.

That leaves Liverpool searching for alternative firepower should Darwin Nunez’s exit be finalised. Given Napoli’s keen interest, this might open the door to exploring options in the other direction.

Osimhen Emerges as a Potential Solution

Victor Osimhen has been floated as a potential alternative, with Rudy Galetti suggesting the Nigerian forward has at least been part of preliminary conversations. While both sides have yet to fully align on terms, the pieces of a mutually beneficial solution are on the table.

With Osimhen out of favour at Napoli and Liverpool needing a top-level replacement up front, there’s logic to the swap. The challenge, as always, lies in valuation and salary structure, both of which are central to the discussions taking place next week.

Photo: IMAGO

Osimhen’s mobility, pressing intensity and explosive finishing would make him a good tactical fit for Arne Slot’s system. With Nunez potentially on his way to Italy, Liverpool may finally resolve a long-running dilemma in the No.9 role with a fresh face who still carries a point to prove.

Window Still Unfolding

Liverpool’s transfer window is far from over. If Nunez completes his move to Naples, Slot will need a reliable goal threat to step in immediately. Osimhen provides that, and the timing of these negotiations couldn’t be more critical. With talks due to ramp up next week, clarity over Liverpool’s new-look forward line may not be far away.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans will be split on Darwin Nunez’s potential departure. While the Uruguayan has provided moments of chaos and brilliance in equal measure, consistency in front of goal has been lacking. If the club is seriously entertaining offers, it signals confidence in finding an upgrade — and Victor Osimhen certainly fits that mould.

The Nigerian’s injury record and wage demands could be sticking points, but his output in Serie A and experience at the highest level should not be overlooked. He’s a Champions League-calibre striker who could thrive under Slot, especially in a high-intensity, fluid front three.

Alexander Isak would have been a dream addition for many fans, but Newcastle’s firm stance forces pragmatism. Osimhen, if fit and fully motivated, could offer similar elite attributes.

Slot’s early success, including a Premier League title in his first season, gives supporters every reason to trust in the recruitment team’s vision. If Nunez is indeed on his way out, fans will be watching closely to see whether Osimhen becomes the statement signing of the summer.