Fabrizio Romano Names Two Clubs in the Race to Sign Liverpool Star ‘Guaranteed’ to Leave | OneFootball

Darwin Nunez Set for Liverpool Exit Amid Napoli and Saudi Interest

Liverpool’s transfer window is accelerating and the future of Darwin Nunez is becoming clearer. According to the ever-reliable Fabrizio Romano, the Uruguayan striker is now “guaranteed” to leave Anfield this summer, with clubs in both Europe and the Middle East vying for his signature.

This development will not come as a shock to many. Nunez, who arrived from Benfica in 2022 for an initial £64 million, has had an inconsistent spell on Merseyside. Despite notching 143 appearances and contributing 62 goals and assists, his Premier League return last season was just five goals, a number far from the expectations that came with his price tag.

Saudi clubs, particularly Al-Ittihad, have been circling for months. But Romano’s update adds fresh intrigue with Napoli entering the conversation. The Italian side have “made contact in recent days” and placed Nunez on their shortlist, with “more talks to follow soon.”

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Napoli’s Approach Brings European Twist

A move to the Saudi Pro League had appeared inevitable, especially given the financial power of those clubs and earlier reports of lavish offers. But Napoli’s sudden involvement reintroduces the possibility of a European future for the 25-year-old. If the Serie A side are serious and meet Liverpool’s valuation, said to be at least £60 million according to The Athletic, this could be a more palatable outcome for the Reds and the player.

It’s worth noting Napoli’s interest is not limited to Nunez, as Romano reports they are also tracking Juventus winger Federico Chiesa. Should both deals materialise, it would represent a major statement of intent from the 2023 Serie A champions.

Liverpool’s Rebuild Gathers Momentum

Nunez’s imminent departure looks set to be the third key outgoing of the summer, following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s move to Real Madrid and Caoimhin Kelleher’s transfer to Brentford. It’s clear that Arne Slot, fresh from winning the Premier League in his debut season, is not shying away from big changes.

His approach suggests a focused strategy. The arrival of Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen could be the first of several moves to reshape the squad. Liverpool’s well-documented interest in Florian Wirtz remains ongoing, and Nunez’s exit could provide the funds required to accelerate that deal. Reports even suggest Kelleher’s sale below market value was designed to assist with negotiations around the German playmaker.

Inevitable but Strategic Departure

What makes this latest development from Romano particularly telling is the certainty. “Guaranteed” is not a word used lightly. While no fee has yet been finalised, all signs point to a conclusion that suits both club and player. As Romano stated:

“Darwin Nunez remains guaranteed exit at Liverpool this summer with Saudi Pro League clubs keen since January. Understand also Napoli have made contact in the recent days with Nunez on the shortlist and more talks to follow soon. Darwin, open to both Saudi-European options.”

If a satisfactory offer arrives, Liverpool will move forward, and Nunez’s Anfield chapter will end – not in disgrace, but in reflection of a gamble that never quite paid off.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For most Liverpool fans, the writing has been on the wall for Darwin Nunez for months. Despite occasional flashes of raw talent and chaotic brilliance, consistency and composure have eluded him. Supporters have wanted to believe he’d explode into a 25-goal-a-season striker, but patience only stretches so far in a title-challenging team.

The fact that Arne Slot is prepared to sanction this move speaks volumes. Slot’s title-winning campaign gave him instant credibility and the freedom to build his team in his image. If Nunez doesn’t fit that vision, it’s better for all parties to part ways now.

There’s also a financial reality here. With key players gone and big names like Florian Wirtz targeted, outgoings are needed to balance the books. If Napoli step up, that’s probably the best-case scenario. Saudi money may be higher, but fans will want to see him stay in Europe and perhaps find the rhythm he lacked in England.

This summer signals the start of a new era under Slot – bold, ruthless and unafraid to make big decisions. Losing Darwin Nunez might sting some, but the focus must remain on what’s next.