Nunez exit looms: Liverpool hold out for €50m as star prefers Napoli over Saudi | OneFootball

Darwin Nunez has reportedly given his approval to a summer move to Napoli, with the Serie A champions now working to agree terms with Liverpool.

The Uruguayan striker is said to be open to the project presented by new Napoli coach Antonio Conte, who is spearheading a major rebuild at the club.

Talks between the clubs are ongoing, but Liverpool are yet to receive a bid that matches their valuation.

Fabrizio Romano reported that Nunez has given his “initial green light” after being convinced by Napoli’s plans, though the deal is still subject to financial agreement.

Liverpool are understood to be holding out for a fee close to €50 million, having paid up to £85 million to sign the forward from Benfica in 2022.

Napoli have so far offered a package worth around €42-43 million, short of the Premier League club’s demands. Liverpool are not desperate to sell, but there is growing acceptance that Nunez is unlikely to remain a long-term fixture under Arne Slot.

The 25-year-old has three years left on his current deal but struggled for consistency during his time at Anfield. Despite flashes of brilliance and a strong work ethic, he failed to fully convince as Liverpool’s first-choice centre-forward.

Still, Nunez remains a valuable asset, and Liverpool would prefer to recoup a significant portion of their investment if they sanction his exit.

Interest from Saudi clubs persists, but the player’s preference is to remain in Europe, with Serie A and La Liga both seen as attractive destinations.

Napoli, fresh from sealing the signing of Kevin De Bruyne and preparing for Victor Osimhen’s departure, are keen to add another powerful forward to their ranks.

A potential partnership between Nunez and Romelu Lukaku has been discussed as part of Conte’s plans.

Nunez’s move is not yet guaranteed, and negotiations over personal terms and salary will be crucial in the coming days.

Liverpool’s strong position in the market and the player’s European preference give them leverage, though Napoli remain confident they can complete the deal.

Should talks progress smoothly, Nunez could become one of the headline arrivals in Italy this summer, signalling the end of his three-year stint at Anfield.