Darwin Nunez may be packing his bags for a new start this summer, but his destination remains uncertain. Napoli wants him, he wants Napoli — yet, like a striker mistiming his run, something’s just not clicking.
The Uruguayan forward is open to leaving Liverpool after a rough spell in the Premier League. Despite flashes of brilliance, Nunez has not quite hit the heights expected since joining from Benfica.
With boss Arne Slot looking to rebuild the Reds, a transfer seems likely. But Napoli’s move for the 26-year-old is hitting a financial snag.
It’s not about form, interest, or even salary — it’s the price tag. And it’s proving to be a real dealbreaker.
ALSO READ: Steven Gerrard gives his verdict on Florian Wirtz signing
Why Darwin Nunez deal to Napoli could breakdown?
Napoli are reportedly ready to offer around €40 million for Nunez, but Liverpool are holding out for closer to €70 million. Even with add-ons, the gap between the two clubs remains wide.
Journalist Gianluca Di Marzio suggests Napoli are unwilling to meet Liverpool’s valuation, which is slowing down the talks.
Despite that, former Napoli star Walter Gargano claims Nunez is more than ready to make the move.
“He told me, ‘Yes, I’ll come to Napoli right away. I’m waiting to close with Napoli,’” Gargano said in an interview with Kiss Kiss radio.
The pair go back to their days in Uruguay, and it’s clear Nunez is keen on the Italian adventure.
But Napoli may soon run out of patience. They are also in talks for Udinese striker Lorenzo Lucca — a cheaper, more straightforward option. And while Nunez remains their top pick, the longer Liverpool hold firm, the more likely Napoli will look elsewhere.
🚨🇺🇾 Napoli remain in active talks for Darwin Nunez; there’s significant gap in valuation with Liverpool but he’s still the top target.
Lorenzo Lucca deal, at advanced stages with Udinese and player side as Napoli can decide to close it any moment.
🎥🇮🇹 https://t.co/QiaFSY8Jq9 pic.twitter.com/XYsJFqH6Zb
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 29, 2025
Nunez might need a Conte reboot in Serie A, just like Lukaku once did. But first, someone has to pay the transfer fee.
ALSO READ: Top 3 clubs where Harvey Elliott can get a transfer move this summer