Image Credits: Imago Images
Darwin Núñez’s lucrative Saudi Arabian adventure could be over before his first season concludes, with a sensational swap deal potentially bringing the former Liverpool striker back to European football. The 26-year-old Uruguayan forward, who joined Al Hilal for €53 million just five months ago, is reportedly unhappy in Riyadh and eager to engineer a move back to Europe.
The ex-Benfica man has contributed seven goals and four assists across 17 appearances for the Saudi Pro League champions this season. His tally includes six goals in 10 league matches, and by all accounts he is enjoying his time in the Middle East on paper.
But according to reports from Globo, the Uruguayan is unhappy with his current environment and is “resolutely intent on departing Saudi Arabia as soon as possible,” motivated by concerns about the league’s competitive nature and his career trajectory.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Nunez will want to be in the best possible position to secure a spot in Uruguay’s squad for the tournament next summer. His current contract ties him to Al Hilal until 2028.
Now Portuguese outlet A Bola has revealed that Nunez’s escape route could materialize through a remarkable player exchange with Turkish giants Fenerbahçe. The proposed swap deal would see the Uruguayan move to Istanbul while Moroccan international Youssef En-Nesyri heads in the opposite direction to Saudi Arabia.
They cite “local reports”, and claim that Al Hilal have long held an interest in En-Nesyri and would welcome the opportunity to bring the 28-year-old forward to the Saudi Pro League. The Portuguese media suggests that Núñez is receptive to a change of scenery, particularly one that facilitates his return to European football. Meanwhile, En-Nesyri is described as “eagerly embracing the opportunity to play in Saudi Arabia,” making both parties amenable to the switch.
Turkish outlet TGRT Haber also reports that Fenerbahçe are looking at the deal. It remains unclear whether the transfer would involve additional financial compensation for either Al Hilal or Fenerbahçe, or if it would be a straight player-for-player exchange.
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