According to a report from Spain, Darwin Nunez “would like to return to Liverpool” and could terminate his contract at Al-Hilal.
Nunez’s move to Saudi Arabia can’t really be deemed a success, despite the vast earnings he will have accumulated of nearly £400,000 per week tax-free.
The January signing of Karim Benzema meant Nunez was excluded from Al-Hilal’s squad for the second half of the league season, while conflict in the Middle East further limited his chances of game time in their Champions League.
As a result, Nunez reportedly reached an agreement to leave this summer.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Sunday, May 25, 2025: Liverpool's Darwin Núñez with the trophy, as the team celebrate becoming Champions for the 20th time, after the FA Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Crystal Palace FC at Anfield. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
Now, Mundo Deportivo claim he “would like to return to Liverpool,” with Barcelona and Chelsea also interested.
The Catalan outlet report from Barcelona‘s side of things that he is on the shortlist to replace Robert Lewandowski, alongside Julian Alvarez who is also a target.
Nunez is 26 years old and viewed as a ‘low-cost’ option, should he conclude his time at Al-Hilal early.
No reported interest from Liverpool
LONDON, ENGLAND - Sunday, April 6, 2025: Liverpool's Darwin Núñez arrives before the FA Premier League match between Fulham FC and Liverpool FC at Craven Cottage. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
While Nunez may be interested in returning to Anfield, there has been no suggestion that Liverpool have sought the Uruguayan, who is expected to start up front at the World Cup.
The premise of the story may be true – you would expect Nunez to fancy a second go at Anfield – but the chances of it happening aren’t particularly likely.
Liverpool could do worse than to have him in the squad, especially given Hugo Ekitike‘s serious Achilles injury.
However, Nunez’s wage demands would surely be reserved for a first-choice striker rather than a squad player.
Back in March, the ex-Red told AUFTV: “I’d be lying if I said no, that I don’t miss them.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Monday, August 4, 2025: Liverpool's Darwin Núñez celebrates after scoring the first goal during a pre-season friendly match between Liverpool FC and Athletic Bilbao at Anfield. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
“The truth is they made me feel very good and my family too.
“In difficult moments that I went through personally, the people always gave me that affection, that support and that was very important to me.
“Obviously I miss Liverpool. I miss them a lot.”
A second coming of Nunez would surely garner a mixed reception. Some may be excited to see what Andoni Iraola could do with his raw ability.
The Uruguayan’s energy and mobility could suit the new coach’s style. In reality, though, Nunez was sold because he simply wasn’t performing.
Nostalgia for the good moments may be clouding fans’ judgement of his overall contributions here!