James Pearce rules out ‘crazy’ Liverpool transfer rumour | OneFootball

Liverpool Transfer Update: James Pearce Dismisses Darwin Nunez Return

Liverpool have been linked with a surprise move to bring Darwin Nunez back to Anfield, but respected reporter James Pearce has delivered a firm assessment of the situation.

Nunez left Liverpool last summer for Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, agreeing a lucrative deal worth around £400,000 per week. The move ended a mixed spell on Merseyside, where the Uruguay international became a popular figure among supporters without ever fully convincing as a long term centre forward option.

His time in Saudi Arabia has not developed as expected. After a positive start, Al Hilal’s signing of Karim Benzema in February created complications around their domestic squad registration, leaving Nunez without regular competitive football at club level.

Liverpool forward situation examined

Liverpool’s attacking depth has come under scrutiny, particularly with Hugo Ekitike injured and Alexander Isak continuing to carry fitness concerns. That has led to suggestions that Nunez, now potentially available on a free transfer if his Al Hilal contract is terminated, could offer short term cover.

The 26 year old is understood to be open to returning to Europe, while Newcastle, Chelsea and Barcelona have also been credited with interest. Reports have suggested Nunez would favour a Liverpool return, although that prospect appears highly unlikely.

Photo: IMAGO

James Pearce gives clear verdict

Speaking on The Athletic’s Walk On podcast, James Pearce strongly rejected the idea of Liverpool bringing Darwin Nunez back.

“That’s a ridiculous idea,” he said. “I don’t even know where to start with that.

“There’s a very, very, good reason why Liverpool got rid of Darwin Nunez.

“I’ve seen some people say: ‘Oh you just get him back on a short-term basis until Ekitike is fit again’.

“On what planet? He’s had his contract ripped up in Saudi, so he would want a massive signing-on fee.

“Even if you could get him for nothing, he would want massive wages and probably a four-year contract.

“Out of all the crazy rumours I’ve heard in the last few weeks, that is right up there.”

Anfield return looks unlikely

Pearce’s comments are significant given his long standing knowledge of Liverpool’s recruitment thinking. Sporting director Richard Hughes is unlikely to view a Nunez return as either financially sensible or strategically aligned with the club’s current direction.

Nunez played a fringe role during Liverpool’s 2024/25 Premier League title winning season under Arne Slot, but the club moved on from him for clear footballing and financial reasons. With Andoni Iraola now appointed as Liverpool head coach, the focus is expected to be on forwards who fit a more refined tactical profile.

For all the affection Nunez still carries among sections of the fanbase, this appears to be one rumour with very little substance. Liverpool may need attacking reinforcements, but James Pearce’s update makes clear that Darwin Nunez is not expected to be part of that conversation.