Liverpool will have to find a new destination for Darwin Nunez after Napoli canceled the negotiations. The 26-year-old was ready to leave Merseyside to join Napoli after three difficult seasons at Anfield.
The Uruguayan has failed to meet his £85 million price, scoring 40 goals in 143 games since joining Liverpool from Benfica in 2022. Liverpool's addition of Florian Wirtz, who could play as a centre forward, and the ambition to chase Alexander Isak have signaled Nunez's departure.
Napoli were the leading candidate for the striker's signature, but Liverpool's demand forced them to switch to a cheaper alternative. The reigning Premier League champions demand £70 million, while Napoli are only willing to spend £50 million on Nunez.
Instead, the Serie A champion is preparing to sign a contract with Lorenzo Lucca from Udinese. The 24 -year -old will join Napoli on the form of lending a season for £ 8.2 million, accompanied by a £ 22.5 million bought bought clause. Many sources said coach Antonio Conte admired Luca and had a green light for the deal.
However, Nunez can still find a way out, as clubs in Saudi Arabia are bustling to chase him. It is reported that Al-Hilal's new head coach, Simone Inzaghi, has identified the former Benfica star as a target if they cannot recruit Victor Osimhen.
However, Liverpool will have to be cautious to avoid running a shortage of attacking forces. Bayern Munich have recently offered to sign Luis Diaz, a player that Barcelona also saw the eye on. Meanwhile, Diogo Jota's tragic accident also cost Liverpool an important star.
Nunez last started for the Reds on 8 March, scoring in a 3-1 home win over bottom-placed Southampton. The Uruguayan international also scored when Liverpool faced Preston North End in a recent friendly match.
However, former Liverpool defender Markus Babbel believes it is time for Nunez to leave. "The problem with Darwin Nunez is that he missed too many chances. I think it's got to the point where Arne Slot lost faith in him. I think the best thing for Nunez is to leave Liverpool, but it will not be easy because he is very expensive.
I think Serie A or La Liga will be great tournaments for him, because the defense here is not the best, especially in Spain. If you are a striker, scoring in those countries will be much easier."
So far, Liverpool have completed three major signings in the summer of 2025, with a total cost of £185 million, including Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez. With this huge investment, The Kop's leadership is forced to consider selling some stars to balance finances. Nunez is currently at the top of the list.
