Liverpool prioritize new No 9 as Nunez exit talks accelerate; Chelsea star among Reds’ options
Liverpool Focuses on Securing a Top Striker in the Summer Transfer Window
Liverpool is actively pursuing the signing of a leading striker, with negotiations regarding Darwin Nunez’s potential departure expected to speed up. The Uruguayan international has been linked with clubs like Napoli and Saudi side Al-Hilal. However, a move to Serie A champions Napoli may face challenges, as Liverpool reportedly demands around £70 million for the player.
Despite the hurdles, it is believed that a transfer for the 26-year-old Nunez may soon come to fruition. Other striking options under consideration include Newcastle’s Alexander Isak and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike. These names remain prominent in Liverpool’s transfer plans, though various factors need aligning for concrete progress.
Additionally, Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, showed interest in Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson during his previous role. Acquiring Jackson could have been more feasible if he were still at Chelsea, but with his recent transfer to the Blues, that option seems less likely.
Other Targeted Strikers and Transfer Market Movements
Earlier in the window, Liverpool also considered Viktor Gyokeres, Victor Osimhen, and Joao Pedro as potential signing targets. Since then, several of these players have moved or are close to completing transfers; Chelsea signed Pedro for £60 million, while Osimhen and Gyokeres are nearing moves to Galatasaray and Arsenal, respectively.
Meanwhile, Ekitike remains a key player in Liverpool’s plans, with Newcastle having made an offer. The club has already spent around £185 million on signings this summer, including Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Giorgi Mamardashvili, and Milos Kerkez. Despite multiple approaches to winger Luis Diaz, Liverpool appears to prioritize strengthening their central striking options, likely requiring player sales to fund further deals.
Darwin Nunez’s Future and Napoli’s Interest
Reports suggest Nunez’s departure could happen soon, with Napoli’s president personalizing negotiations through broker Fali Ramadani. Napoli is also considering Udinese’s Lorenzo Lucca as an alternative, valued at around £34 million, but remains interested in acquiring Nunez, weighing whether to increase their offer.
The club’s transfer plans have been impacted by Diogo Jota’s recent injury and subsequent absence, which is expected to influence their strategy for the remainder of the window. Despite his potential departure, Jota was anticipated to be a key part of Liverpool’s squad this season.
Liverpool are actively pursuing a top striker this summer. Pictured: Sporting director Richard Hughes (left) and head coach Arne Slot (right)
Talks about Darwin Nunez’s potential move are expected to accelerate, with interest from Napoli and Al-Hilal.