Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez has caught the eye of former Premier League boss Jose Mourinho, with the Uruguayan striker now on the summer transfer shortlist for Turkish side Fenerbahce.
After netting just seven goals in all competitions for the Reds this season, Nunez’s future at Anfield remains uncertain.
Upon Arne Slot’s takeover as head coach from Jurgen Klopp between the last and current seasons, Nunez had just completed a second year with Liverpool that showed slight improvement on his goal contributions following his initial £64 million ($85 million) move from Benfica, a fee potentially rising to £85 million ($112.9 million).
However, the 25-year-old has seemingly struggled to adapt to the changes under new management, casting doubt over his future role at the club.
According to the latest whispers, Fanatik reports that Nunez is among several strikers being considered by Fenerbahce ahead of the transfer window.
Mourinho, a former rival of Liverpool during his stints at Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham, has a track record of signing ex-Premier League players and could continue this trend by testing Liverpool’s resolve to keep their No. 9.
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However, it’s worth noting that Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic is named as the Portuguese manager’s top priority, with Aleksandar Mitrovic also mentioned.
Regardless, if not Fenerbahce, the report suggests that Nunez won’t be short of potential suitors.
Atletico Madrid, Napoli, Milan, and Leipzig are all reportedly keen, potentially setting the stage for a fierce bidding war. Saudi Pro League team Al-Hilal also warrant a mention.
Representatives from the Gulf state approached Liverpool in January regarding Nunez’s transfer, but were informed it wasn’t the right time.
Slot was determined to keep his squad intact during Liverpool’s Premier League title chase.
However, the Reds may be more open to discussions this summer, and Al-Hilal are anticipated to return with an attempt to seal a deal as soon as the window opens on June 1, aiming to register the striker in time for the FIFA Club World Cup.
In the ever-spinning world of transfers, if Nunez were to move to Al-Hilal, it could potentially pave the way for Mitrovic to depart and the ex-Fulham player to join Mourinho’s side in Turkey.
