Darwin Nunez move to Napoli falls through as exit from Liverpool still likely
The Uruguayan striker scored in a recent friendly against Preston North End
Darwin Nunez could see his proposed transfer to Napoli officially off, despite growing speculation about his future at Liverpool.
The Uruguayan striker, who scored in a recent friendly against Preston North End, has struggled to secure regular playing time under new manager Arne Slot.
According to the expert football transfer reporter, Fabrizio Romano, Napoli has informed Liverpool that the deal can be considered off.
He posted on his X page earlier today saying, “Napoli have informed Liverpool tonight that the Darwin Nunez deal can be considered off.
🚨🚫 Napoli have informed Liverpool tonight that Darwin Nunez deal can be considered off.
Napoli will sign Lucca as new striker despite Nunez opening doors to the move, fee considered too high.
👀 Nunez, still expected to leave #LFC this summer with Saudi clubs and more keen. pic.twitter.com/g69gxDNMKJ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 15, 2025
Nunez managed just seven goals last season as Liverpool clinched the Premier League title.
Since his high-profile move from Benfica in 2022, the 26-year-old has struggled to meet expectations, prompting interest from several clubs, including Napoli, AC Milan, and Saudi side Al-Hilal.
Napoli had been in talks to sign Núñez but have now pulled out of the deal due to the high transfer fee. Instead, they are set to sign Udinese striker Lorenzo Lucca.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the development, stating that Napoli informed Liverpool that the deal is off, despite the former Benfica star being open to the move.
Romano noted that Núñez has other significant offers, particularly from Saudi Arabia, and cannot afford to wait indefinitely for Napoli’s decision. With his future at Anfield uncertain, a summer departure still appears likely.
Nunez’s time at Liverpool has been mixed, with flashes of potential overshadowed by inconsistency. A move away could offer a fresh start and more playing time, which he has struggled to find in England.
As Napoli shifts focus to Lucca, attention now turns to where Nunez will land next. Saudi clubs remain keen, and AC Milan could still be in the mix. One thing is clear: Darwin Nunez’s chapter at Liverpool may be nearing its end.
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