Liverpool open to summer exit for striker amid Newcastle links | OneFootball

Darwin Núñez’s Liverpool Future in Doubt as Newcastle Linked with Move

Liverpool Ready to Move On from Núñez

Liverpool’s £85 million investment in Darwin Núñez was supposed to mark the arrival of a new talismanic striker at Anfield. Two years on, however, the conversation has shifted from potential to frustration, with the club now exploring the possibility of moving him on.

According to The Chronicle, Liverpool have offered Núñez to Premier League rivals, with Newcastle United among those alerted to his availability. Despite his raw talent and moments of brilliance, his inconsistency in front of goal has led to growing concerns over his long-term place in the squad.

Arne Slot’s View on Núñez’s Inconsistency

The situation took another turn following Núñez’s high-profile miss against Aston Villa, which became a defining moment in an already mixed Liverpool career. His performances have fluctuated between game-changing energy and frustrating inefficiency, leaving Arne Slot with a difficult decision to make.

Photo IMAGO

The new Liverpool boss has already addressed expectations for his players, stating:

“I can’t accept if a player doesn’t give everything. That is clear. I can accept it once, but twice was a bit too much. That’s why I addressed it.”

Slot also acknowledged the work rate that has made Núñez a fan favourite, adding:

“If you miss a chance, you need to be fighting for the team. I’m not saying he didn’t do that at all, but it wasn’t the usual Darwin, the one that is loved by the fans.”

Newcastle’s Interest and Potential Deal Structure

Newcastle have previously scouted Núñez and are now considering a move for the Uruguayan. The Chronicle reports that a £60 million deal could be on the table, although speculation of a swap deal involving Alexander Isak has been dismissed.

Photo: IMAGO

For Newcastle, Núñez would represent a gamble—a player with undeniable ability but unpredictable output. Whether they see him as a risk worth taking remains to be seen, but with Callum Wilson’s future uncertain, an opportunity to add a dynamic striker to their Champions League push could prove tempting.

What Next for Núñez and Liverpool?

Liverpool’s attacking rebuild is in motion, and Núñez’s future could be one of the defining stories of the summer window. His energy, pressing, and ability to stretch defences have made him a useful asset, but if the finishing doesn’t improve, his Anfield stay could be cut short.

Photo: IMAGO

A move away could offer both player and club a fresh start, with Liverpool looking to refine their forward line under Slot’s new regime.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, Núñez’s potential departure is a conflicted topic. On one hand, he epitomises the energy and relentless drive that supporters admire. On the other, his lack of composure in key moments has cost the team dearly in crucial games.

The idea of selling him to Newcastle for £60 million is divisive. Some will argue that it’s a fair price, especially considering the club’s need to refresh the squad. Others will feel that Liverpool could regret letting him go too soon, given his physicality, movement, and ability to create chances.

There’s also a bigger question—who replaces him? If Liverpool offload Núñez, a high-quality replacement must be secured. If the club simply shifts the issue without a clear plan, it could backfire.

Arne Slot has made it clear—Liverpool need efficiency in attack. If Núñez can’t deliver, then change is inevitable. But if he does find his finishing touch elsewhere, will Liverpool be left wondering what might have been?