Liverpool’s Uruguayan striker, who scored in the club’s recent 3-1 pre-season win over Preston North End on July 13, is reportedly growing frustrated with his limited role.
Despite being part of a title-winning squad, he made just eight Premier League starts last season—a situation that’s now fueling growing transfer speculation.
Sources claim Darwin Núñez had a tense exchange with manager Arne Slot at the AXA Training Centre, voicing concerns over being overlooked in favor of players like Cody Gakpo and the late Diogo Jota.
Slot, known for demanding high intensity and work ethic, reportedly questioned Núñez’s consistency and effort—similar to his public criticism back in February after lackluster showings against Wolves and Aston Villa.
This friction has intensified speculation around Núñez’s future, with Napoli making him a priority target as they prepare for life after Victor Osimhen, who’s edging closer to a move to Galatasaray.
Napoli are said to have tabled a €55 million bid with bonuses—rejected by Liverpool, who are holding out for closer to €60–70 million.
Negotiations appear to be stalling, with Napoli also pursuing a more affordable option in Udinese’s Lorenzo Lucca for €34 million. Still, Núñez has reportedly given his approval for a move to Naples, preferring a switch within Europe over lucrative offers from Saudi clubs like Al-Hilal.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano noted on July 14 that Núñez is “still waiting” for Napoli but won’t wait indefinitely. The ongoing saga has stirred unease in the Liverpool camp, which is already coping with the emotional aftermath of Diogo Jota’s tragic passing.
During the Preston match, Núñez scored and paid tribute to his late teammate—further amplifying the emotional weight surrounding the striker’s situation.
Fans are split. Some believe Liverpool should keep Núñez due to the club’s current lack of depth up front, while others point to Slot’s ongoing lack of faith in the forward—often preferring Luis Díaz in an unfamiliar role—as a clear sign Núñez’s time at Anfield may be coming to an end.
With pre-season in full swing and key fixtures—including the Community Shield vs Crystal Palace on August 10—just around the corner, the uncertainty around Núñez and potential replacements like Alexander Isak or Hugo Ekitike threatens to disrupt Arne Slot’s preparations for the new season.
