Darwin Nunez has shared his thoughts about going back to Liverpool and says he is ‘wanted’ as a free transfer.
Darwin Nunez has shared how he feels about possibly returning to Liverpool, as there are talks that he might leave Saudi Pro League team Al Hilal on a free transfer. The Uruguay striker moved from Anfield to the Middle East last summer for £64 million.
Things haven’t gone as planned for Nunez in Saudi Arabia. He hasn’t played since February after being removed from Al Hilal’s league squad. His last game was a friendly for Uruguay against England in March. Despite this, he’s been chosen by coach Marcelo Bielsa for Uruguay’s 26-man World Cup squad and hopes to impress during the tournament to attract new clubs.
According to Spanish news outlet Mundo Deportivo, Nunez could end his contract with Al Hilal and leave when the summer transfer window opens. Barcelona might be interested as a cheaper option if they can’t sign their main target, Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid. But it’s Liverpool’s interest that is getting the most attention.
Nunez had ups and downs at Liverpool, scoring just five Premier League goals in his last season. Still, he played some important moments that helped Liverpool win the league under manager Arne Slot. His ability to play as a center forward or on the wing was something Liverpool hasn’t replaced since he left. Bringing him back on a free transfer, after selling him for £64 million less than a year ago, could be a smart move as new manager Andoni Iraola looks to strengthen the squad.
So, what does Nunez think? Mundo Deportivo says Nunez does want to make a surprise return to Liverpool this summer, even with interest from other clubs. Back in March, while on international duty, he said he misses the Liverpool fans “a lot.” He shared, “I would be lying if I said I don’t miss the Liverpool supporters. They made me and my family feel so good, especially when I was going through a tough time. I obviously miss Liverpool, I miss them a lot.”
Nunez originally joined Liverpool for £64 million, the same amount he was later sold to Al Hilal for, though that fee could have risen to £85 million with add-ons. He scored 40 goals in 143 games, but his playing time became less frequent toward the end of Slot’s time as manager. In his final season, he made a memorable impact by scoring two stoppage-time goals in a 2-0 win over Brentford, which were two of his five goals that campaign.