Liverpool confirm Darwin Nunez’s departure as new update emerges on Isak

Liverpool have officially confirmed the departure of striker Darwin Nunez, ending his three-year stay at Liverpool.

The Uruguayan international has joined Saudi Pro-League (SPL) side Al Hilal in a deal worth £46 million.

Nunez joined Liverpool from Portuguese side Benfica in the summer of 2022, with former manager Jurgen Klopp reportedly pushing for his signature.

He leaves Anfield having made 143 appearances and scored 40 goals, winning Premier League and Carabao Cup winners’ medals.

The 26-year-old impressed on his debut, scoring to help Liverpool beat Manchester City to the Community Shield.

He netted 15 goals in 42 games in his first season and was named the club’s Standard Chartered Player of the Month on two occasions.

Nunez came up clutch for Liverpool on several occasions. According to OptaJoe, he netted more 90th-minute winning goals than any other player since his Premier League debut.

However, his performances were marred by inconsistencies. He only started eight Premier League games during Liverpool’s title-winning campaign last season due to manager Arne Slot’s lack of trust in him.

Slot wants a more prolific striker, and it is no surprise that Liverpool sanctioned his exit to Al Hilal.

His game time could have reduced further if he had stayed at Anfield due to the arrival of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt and Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen – both of whom can spearhead the attack.

In a statement released by Liverpool, the Merseyside outfit thanked Nunez for his services.

“Everybody at the club would like to thank Darwin for his contributions and wish him and his family all the best for the future.”

According to journalist Paul Joyce, Liverpool plan to reinforce the attack following the departure of the Uruguayan. Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak is their first-choice target to replace him.

The Magpies are reluctant to sell the Swedish forward and have reportedly told him that he will not be sold this summer. However, manager Eddie Howe has said he is unaware of such position.

Nunez performed below expectations with the Merseyside outfit but will fondly be remembered for his clutch goals and commitment.