Image Credits: Imago Images
Darwin Nunez’s future has taken another twist, with the former Liverpool striker reportedly turning down a move to Fenerbahçe as yet another surprise suitor makes an enquiry. The Uruguayan has been heavily linked with an exit from Al Hilal during the winter window, but fresh reports from Saudi Arabia suggest he is in no rush to walk away from his lucrative deal in Riyadh.
According to Saudi outlet reporting relayed by YS Scores, Fenerbahçe opened negotiations with Al Hilal over a loan move for Núñez, hoping to bring him back to Europe for the second half of the season. The Turkish giants are said to have made a formal offer, but their plans were “thwarted” after the 26‑year‑old made it clear he preferred to stay put, with the report stressing that Núñez feels “comfortable and happy” at Al Hilal and has no intention of forcing a move.
That stance suits the Saudi champions, who view the forward as important with seven goals and five assists in 22 games this season.
Even as Fenerbahçe were knocked back, another unexpected name entered the race. Brazilian outlet UOL claim Flamengo recently sounded out both Núñez and Richarlison as potential centre‑forward options.
Flamengo reportedly “consulted” Nunez’s camp to understand the numbers involved in a possible deal but quickly walked away once they learned of his eye‑watering salary at Al Hilal, believed to be around €16 million net per year. The Brazilian club, despite their strong finances by South American standards, ruled themselves out as those wages were far beyond what they could realistically commit to and halted talks at an early stage.
Unless a club is willing, and able, to match his current salary, the Uruguayan looks set to keep “refusing” suitors and continue his Saudi adventure a while longer.
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