Atletico Madrid & Saudi Pro League in the Mix as Uruguayan Striker Prepares for Liverpool Exit
There’s never a dull moment at Anfield, and this summer promises to be no exception. The latest headlines surrounding Darwin Nunez suggest that the Uruguayan forward may be preparing for a life away from Liverpool, just two years after making a record-breaking move from Benfica.
With Atletico Madrid and the Saudi Pro League circling, and reports claiming he’s already begun “organising life” in Madrid, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to imagine Darwin Nunez in red when the new season kicks off.
Darwin Nunez’s Liverpool Journey: A Tale of Mixed Fortunes
When Darwin Nunez arrived on Merseyside in the summer of 2022, Liverpool fans had high hopes for the young striker. His £85 million ($113m) price tag made him the club’s most expensive signing ever, surpassing the fees paid for Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker. A powerful, athletic forward with a keen eye for goal, Nunez was seen as a long-term replacement for Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino, who had been pillars of Jurgen Klopp’s attack.
In his first season under Klopp, Darwin Nunez showed flashes of brilliance. He scored goals, ran the channels with menace, and brought a chaotic energy that unsettled defences across the Premier League. However, his finishing was often erratic, and his decision-making occasionally erratic. The raw potential was undeniable, but consistency remained elusive.
Life Under Arne Slot: A Change in Direction
The 2024-25 season brought change at Anfield, with Dutch coach Arne Slot stepping in following Jurgen Klopp’s emotional departure. While Slot’s tenure is still in its infancy, it’s clear that Darwin Nunez has not featured prominently in his plans. Reports from Mundo Deportivo, via Sport Witness, suggest that the forward has grown disillusioned with his limited role under Slot’s tactical setup.
From 29 Premier League appearances this season, Darwin Nunez managed just five goals. For a striker of his pedigree, that’s an underwhelming return. Often deployed as a substitute or played out of position, his influence on games has waned. It’s a far cry from the explosive promise that prompted Liverpool to break the bank for him just two years ago.
Organising Life in Madrid: Atletico Calling?
The most telling detail of all? Reports suggest that Darwin Nunez has already started organising his life in Madrid, pointing strongly to a move to Atletico Madrid. A loan with a mandatory purchase clause is believed to be Atletico’s preferred structure, a move that would allow them to stagger the financial burden while securing the player long-term.
Diego Simeone is said to be a big admirer of the striker’s physicality, work rate, and ability to stretch defences — qualities that would suit Atleti’s direct, counter-attacking style. The synergy is easy to see: Darwin Nunez, a striker who thrives in transition, and Simeone, a coach who prizes aggression and verticality.
If the deal materialises, it could be the fresh start Darwin Nunez desperately needs — and a new weapon for Simeone as he looks to close the gap with Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Saudi Interest Remains Strong
But Spain isn’t the only potential destination. Saudi Pro League clubs have also expressed strong interest in luring Darwin Nunez to the Middle East. As the Saudi league continues its ambitious drive to attract elite talent, Darwin Nunez’s age (25), profile, and marketability make him an attractive target.
The question is whether the striker, still in the prime of his career, would be willing to trade Champions League ambitions for the riches of the Saudi top flight. Unlike players at the tail end of their careers, Darwin Nunez still has much to prove in European football. A move to Saudi Arabia would raise eyebrows — and potentially stall his development.
Contract Situation: What Do Liverpool Want?
It’s important to remember that Darwin Nunez remains under contract at Anfield until 2028. That gives Liverpool considerable leverage. The Reds are not under pressure to sell, and they will almost certainly demand a substantial fee — or at least guarantees of future payments — if Darwin Nunez is to leave.
A loan with obligation to buy, such as the one proposed by Atletico, could be a compromise. It would allow Liverpool to shift wages off the books while ensuring they eventually recoup most of the transfer fee. What’s clear is that Liverpool won’t let him go cheaply.
Final Farewell This Weekend?
This weekend’s Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace could very well mark Darwin Nunez’s last appearance in a Liverpool shirt. With the club rounding off their campaign at home, and with the title race now settled, there may be an opportunity for one final cameo — perhaps even a farewell goal.
It would be a fitting way to sign off for a player who, while not quite delivering on his lofty promise, still gave fans moments of excitement and chaos that won’t be forgotten.
A Transfer That Reflects the Modern Game
If Darwin Nunez does move on this summer, it will be another case study in the risks of big-money signings in the modern era. The jump from Portugal’s Primeira Liga to the Premier League is significant, and not every player adapts immediately — or at all.
In Darwin Nunez’s case, the ingredients for success were there: physical dominance, a decent scoring record, and age on his side. But football is a game of timing, and sometimes, the right player arrives at the wrong moment. Klopp’s departure, Slot’s new system, and the pressure of expectations may have all conspired against the Uruguayan.
What Comes Next?
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Darwin Nunez’s next move. Atletico Madrid seems the most likely destination, but don’t rule out a last-minute hijack from Saudi clubs with deep pockets. Alternatively, another European side could emerge as a dark horse.
Whatever happens, Darwin Nunez’s time at Liverpool will be remembered as a whirlwind. From goals and cards to fanfare and frustration, he was never boring. If this is the end, he leaves behind a complicated legacy — but one that’s still being written.
