Liverpool ‘Agree Deal’ Worth £46.2m for Striker – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Agree Nunez Sale to Al Hilal: A Shift in Strategy at Anfield

Liverpool have reached an agreement with Al Hilal for the sale of forward Darwin Nunez, according to Sky Sports. The Saudi Pro League side are prepared to pay a fixed fee of £46.2 million (€53 million), with further add-ons potentially taking the deal up to £56.6 million (€65 million).

Sky in Italy reports that Al Hilal have agreed to meet Nunez’s wage demands, signalling serious intent from the club to secure the Uruguayan’s signature. AC Milan also made an approach for the striker, but were, as expected, unable to match the financial package on offer from Saudi Arabia.

However, a critical step remains. “It is understood that Liverpool are yet to be informed that Nunez has given his greenlight to the move.” This leaves room for the player to reconsider, although momentum seems to be with Al Hilal.

Highs and Lows: Nunez’s Mixed Spell at Anfield

Darwin Nunez arrived at Liverpool with much fanfare in the summer of 2022, following a £64 million move from Benfica. He was seen as a dynamic, high-ceiling striker who could bring energy and raw pace to Liverpool’s front line. Despite flashes of brilliance, his time at Anfield has been turbulent.

While his goal contributions in all competitions were respectable, inconsistency and a lack of composure in front of goal often drew criticism. Liverpool fans were frequently divided. Some saw a rough diamond, others a poor fit for the system, particularly under Jurgen Klopp’s meticulous tactical framework.

Photo: IMAGO

Now, under Arne Slot, who led Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut season, it appears that patience has worn thin, or perhaps the manager simply prefers a different profile of forward.

Saudi League Continues European Talent Drive

The Saudi Pro League’s pursuit of elite European talent shows no sign of slowing down. Al Hilal’s financial power has again been demonstrated by their willingness to meet both Liverpool’s asking price and Nunez’s personal terms.

This trend has reshaped global football economics, forcing European clubs to make difficult decisions. “AC Milan were interested and made an approach, but were unlikely to ever match these figures,” underlining the widening financial gap between traditional giants and emerging super-clubs from the Middle East.

For Liverpool, the deal represents smart business given Nunez’s fluctuating form and market value. The funds could be reinvested to strengthen key areas of the squad ahead of another title charge under Slot.

What Comes Next for Liverpool’s Forward Line?

With Nunez likely to depart, Liverpool’s attacking unit enters a period of transformation. Cody Gakpo and Diogo Jota were often preferred centrally last season, while Luis Díaz and Mohamed Salah continue to be the wide threats.

Given the tragic passing of Jota in July, this decision carries extra emotional weight and places further importance on recruitment before the transfer window closes. Arne Slot may now look to bring in a clinical, tactically adaptable forward who better suits his approach.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As Liverpool fans, watching Nunez leave evokes mixed emotions. There’s a sense of what could have been. He showed promise in spells, particularly with his pressing, movement and work ethic. But a Liverpool striker must be clinical, and Darwin too often flattered to deceive.

This isn’t just about form. Slot’s system relies heavily on link-up play, spatial awareness and intelligent positioning. Nunez’s raw attributes were admirable, but he didn’t consistently match the tactical discipline expected. While he gave everything, his unpredictability in key moments undermined Liverpool’s attacking fluidity.

Financially, this is an excellent deal. Recouping most of the original fee in today’s market, given his inconsistency, is smart business. More importantly, it gives the club flexibility. With Jota’s heartbreaking death still fresh, reinforcements in attack are not only needed, they’re essential.

Fans will rightly expect a significant addition. A player who is Premier League ready and aligned with Slot’s long-term vision.

This deal signals something deeper: Liverpool are no longer sentimental about big transfers. Slot is shaping the team in his image and ruthlessness may be the price of progress.