The Magpies have been linked with a move for the former Liverpool striker
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA - AUGUST 29: Darwin Nunez of Team Al-Hilal FC celebrates scoring their first goal during the Saudi Pro League match between Al Hilal and Al Riyadh at Kingdom Arena on August 29, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)
Darwin Nunez could return to the Premier League this summer(Image: Getty Images)
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Chelsea have emerged as a potential destination for former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, should he return to the Premier League this summer.
Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur have both been strongly linked with the Uruguay international, who is set to leave Saudi side Al-Hilal in the coming months.
Nunez moved to the Saudi Pro League last year in a £54m deal as Liverpool made room in their squad for the arrival of Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike.
However, the 26-year-old has lost his place in the squad following the arrival of Karim Benzema, and now looks set to leave in the summer.
He is said to prefer a return to the UK, with several clubs already linked with a move.
Newcastle are among them, should Eddie Howe and sporting director Ross Wilson decide the squad needs more firepower.
United spent big on Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa last summer, following the £130m deal taking Isak to Anfield, but neither have filled the huge void left by the Swede.
Nunez struggled for regular gametime at Liverpool, scoring 40 goals in 143 appearances for the Reds, but would offer a more traditional No 9 to Newcastle.
He is reportedly on a stagering £400,000 per week salary at Al-Hilal, but would have to take a considerable pay cut if he was to return to the Premier League.
Liam Delap with Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior
Liam Delap with Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior
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If Chelsea follow up interest, it could mean a big decision over Liam Delap. United lost out to the Blues last summer when he opted to move to Stamford Bridge from Ipswich Town, and would be on red alert if the 23-year-old was to become available again at the end of the season.
United missed out on several striker targets last year, with Ekitike joining Liverpool, Delap moving to Chelsea and Benjamin Sesko choosing Manchester United.
They will be keen to avoid similar frustrations in 2026, although should Chelsea sign Nunez, it could open up Delap options.
United have money to spend in the transfer window, with a new goalkeeper, a full-back and striker thought to be among their priorities.
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