Darwin Nunez’s stint in Saudi Arabia could soon draw to a close, according to recent reports from South America.
The ex-Liverpool man only moved to the Saudi Pro League last summer when he left the Reds to sign for Al-Hilal, and has scored five goals from 11 appearances, with injuries limiting his availability in recent weeks.
Despite that, Nunez has reportedly attracted interest from elsewhere, with Argentinian outlet Ole claiming he is a transfer target for River Plate ahead of the new season, which begins in the spring. The Buenos Aires club is said to have significant fees to strengthen the squad and is also anticipating the departure of several youngsters, which will also boost funds.
As a result, River is setting loftier ambitions in the transfer market and could look to target Nunez.
However, Ole adds that conversations surrounding a possible move have not progressed beyond a phone call.
A move to Argentina feels unlikely at this stage of Nunez’s career. He would certainly have to accept a significantly reduced wage.
Darwin Nunez of Team Al-Hilal FC celebrates scoring
Nunez has scored five goals since his move to Saudi Arabia (Image: Getty Images)
The 26-year-old continues to attract widespread interest despite his difficult final season at Liverpool, in which he managed just seven goals in all competitions.
Napoli was keen on the Uruguayan in the summer, while several other European clubs were monitoring his situation.
And Nunez’s absence was keenly felt in the early weeks of Liverpool’s season, as the Reds failed to impress offensively.
“All the players who left were important,” Alisson said in an interview earlier this year. “Lucho [Diaz], Darwin, they all made a difference for us with goals or their playing, fighting, defending.
Darwin Nunez
Nunez left Liverpool in the summer after a disappointing 2025/26 season (Image: Getty Images)
“They had good energy, and we miss them. The ones who arrived are stars; they're doing very well with their contributions, they have a lot of quality. It's clear we want to improve because we need to; we have many competitions to play.”
Nunez spent three years at Liverpool and managed 40 goals from 143 appearances, but scored just one in his final four months as a Red.
The striker won the Premier League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup during his time at Anfield.