Darwin Nunez’s contract has been ended as he is linked with two Premier League teams.
Darwin Nunez’s time with Al Hilal has reportedly come to an end, and he might be heading back to the Premier League soon.
Back in 2022, the Uruguayan striker moved from Portuguese club Benfica to Liverpool for €75 million (£64m). After three years at Anfield, where he helped Liverpool win the 2024–25 Premier League, Nunez left for Saudi Pro League’s Al Hilal for €53 million (£46m).
Since joining Al Hilal, the 26-year-old has found it tough to make a big impression, especially after Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema arrived earlier this year. Because of that, Nunez and Al Hilal have reportedly agreed to end his contract, making him free to return to England this summer.
According to The Mirror, Benzema’s signing pushed Nunez out of the squad due to the Saudi league’s rule limiting each team to ten foreign players—eight over 20 and two under 20. Nunez played 22 games, scoring nine goals and assisting five, while Benzema matched those numbers in just 12 games since his debut in February.
Now a free agent, two Premier League clubs, Newcastle United and Chelsea, are said to be keeping an eye on Nunez. A move back to Liverpool isn’t likely, but these teams could offer him a fresh start. Plus, Italian giants Juventus might be interested as they look for someone to replace Dusan Vlahovic, who is leaving the club this summer.
Nunez’s next move might also depend on whether he plays in the World Cup with Uruguay. He hasn’t played for his club since February 16, so it’s unclear if he’ll be picked for Marcelo Bielsa’s squad. Even if he is, he’s not guaranteed much playing time since his last appearances for Uruguay were just short substitute appearances in friendlies against England and Algeria in March.
Still, it seems likely Nunez will be part of Uruguay’s World Cup team in North America this summer. If he performs well, many clubs could be interested in signing him as a free agent.