Al-Hilal forward emerges as ‘low-cost’ option for Barcelona; player waiting for an offer | OneFootball

Barcelona’s search for a new goalscorer could be taking an unexpected turn, with fresh reports suggesting Darwin Nunez has emerged as a potential alternative if the club fails to land its priority target this summer.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the Uruguayan striker is aware that his name has been discussed within Barcelona’s hierarchy and is now waiting to discover whether the Catalan giants will make a concrete move.

The development comes at a time when Barcelona are actively exploring options to strengthen their attack. 

While the club’s main objective remains securing a high-profile centre-forward, recent developments in the market may force sporting directors to consider alternative solutions.

Barcelona exploring alternatives

Nunez is waiting for Barcelona. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

There has been little secret about Barcelona’s desire to bring in a new number nine ahead of the upcoming season.

Julian Alvarez has been widely viewed as the dream target, with the Argentine possessing the profile, age and quality that perfectly fit the club’s long-term plans. 

However, the situation has become increasingly complicated following Real Madrid’s €150 million offer for the forward.

With competition intensifying and financial limitations still influencing Barcelona’s transfer strategy, the club is examining more affordable options, which is where Nunez enters the conversation.

The 26-year-old forward has appeared on Barcelona’s shortlist of alternative attacking targets, with his situation presenting a potential market opportunity should the club decide to accelerate discussions.

Jorge Mendes talks bring Nunez into focus

Barcelona have internally discussed Darwin Nunez. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

The report claims that Nunez’s name surfaced during conversations involving super-agent Jorge Mendes and Al-Hilal while discussions over Joao Cancelo were taking place.

Sources cited by the outlet suggest the striker has already been informed that Barcelona have discussed his situation internally. As a result, he is now awaiting further developments while keeping his options open.

His current circumstances could make a transfer easier than expected, as Nunez lost his licence to play in the Saudi Pro League following squad registration changes linked to Karim Benzema’s arrival at Al-Hilal.

The striker is therefore monitoring potential opportunities, whether they come from Barcelona or other interested clubs.