Journalist: Liverpool Star ‘Will Leave This Summer’ in £50m Deal | OneFootball

Darwin Núñez Set for Liverpool Exit as Napoli Interest Grows

Liverpool’s summer transfer window could be set for a significant twist with Darwin Núñez expected to leave Anfield, just two years after arriving as the club’s record signing. In an insightful conversation with Dave Davis for Anfield Index, journalist Lewis Steele shared revealing details about the forward’s likely departure, shedding light on interest from Napoli and the financial realities surrounding the move.

Napoli’s Pursuit and European Interest

Napoli appear to be leading the chase for Núñez. According to Steele, “As far as I’m aware there has been no official bid or approaches for Nunez at this stage, but it seems that Napoli are keen.” He went on to add, “I’ve seen some Italian reports that claim he is Antonio Conte’s number one target, so I’ll believe them.”

That endorsement from Italy, coupled with continued interest from Saudi Pro League clubs and Atlético Madrid, suggests a multi-club tussle could emerge. While no concrete bids have yet materialised, the groundwork for Núñez’s exit seems to be well under way.

Valuation Woes and Financial Realities

Liverpool’s valuation of the Uruguayan striker has raised eyebrows. The club is reportedly seeking between £65 million and £70 million for Núñez, but as Steele explains, that may not reflect his current market value. “Nunez will leave this summer and Liverpool want around £65-70million for him, but I can’t see them getting that. They will do well to get £40-50m, I think.”

For a player who arrived from Benfica with high expectations and an £85 million price tag including add-ons, that projected sale figure is a marked drop. Yet, it mirrors the inconsistent performances that have defined Núñez’s time at Anfield. While he offered explosive pace and chaotic energy, his lack of composure in front of goal and fit within the system made him a divisive figure during Jürgen Klopp’s final years and now into Arne Slot’s early reign.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s Rebuild and Forward Planning

The potential sale of Núñez is not just about recouping money. It’s about reshaping Liverpool’s attacking identity under Premier League-winning manager Arne Slot. Steele touched on the broader context of squad rebuilding, saying: “They may have to take a little bit of a hit on this one and Liverpool need to try and make some money back because they’ve already spent an awful lot of money and as far as I’m aware, there’s going to be more money spent in the upcoming weeks and months.”

Slot’s ability to lead Liverpool to the title in his first season suggests that he has a clear vision for the squad. Whether that includes a new central striker or a tactical shift in attacking play, Núñez’s departure seems increasingly inevitable as the club look to evolve.

Strategic Exit or Misjudged Investment?

While some fans may lament what Núñez could have become, others will see this as a necessary reset. It is no longer just about talent but about system fit and squad harmony. With Liverpool prioritising smart recruitment and sustainability, cutting losses on Núñez may not be a failure, but a necessary course correction.

As Steele concluded in his discussion with Anfield Index, there is still business to be done. The next few weeks could prove decisive, both for Núñez and for Liverpool’s next chapter under Slot.