Fabrizio Romano Confirms Liverpool Striker Deal is now ‘Off’ | OneFootball

Darwin Núñez’s Future Uncertain as Napoli Exit Talks Stall

Fabrizio Romano has delivered a key update that will stir debate among Liverpool fans. According to Romano, Darwin Núñez will not be joining Napoli this summer, as the Serie A champions consider Liverpool’s asking price “too high.” Instead, Napoli are closing in on Udinese striker Lorenzo Lucca.

However, this does not mean Núñez is staying put. Romano added that the Uruguayan forward is “still expected to leave” Anfield during this transfer window, with clubs in Saudi Arabia showing concrete interest.

Liverpool’s Attack Faces Potential Reshuffle

Darwin Núñez, who arrived from Benfica in 2022 for an initial £64 million, has been a polarising figure at Anfield. His record of 40 goals and 26 assists in 143 games reflects both his productivity and his inconsistency.

He was on the scoresheet again during Sunday’s 3-1 pre-season win over Preston at Deepdale, reminding fans of his attacking threat. But questions remain. Núñez has often divided opinion, with fans admiring his “work rate and effort” but also noting his erratic finishing and decision-making.

Isak Links Fuel Transfer Buzz

Romano’s update arrives alongside fresh reports that Liverpool have made an approach for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak. Adding Isak to the already eye-catching signing of Florian Wirtz, for over £100 million, would signal Liverpool’s clear ambition to defend their Premier League crown.

Slot’s side, fresh from lifting the title in his debut season, cannot afford to be light in attack. If Núñez departs, a replacement will be vital to maintain squad depth and firepower.

Núñez’s Legacy and Unfinished Business

It is hard to deny Núñez’s determination on the pitch. He has been “loved by many Kopites” yet “frustrates the life out of others.” Despite the ups and downs, his raw pace, pressing and physicality have contributed significantly to Liverpool’s high-energy style.

While a move to Napoli is off, the future remains open. Whether Núñez will be lining up in Liverpool Red next season is a question still hanging in the air.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, this update from Fabrizio Romano is bittersweet. On one hand, there’s relief that Núñez will not be strengthening a European rival like Napoli. On the other, there’s the nagging sense that his time at Anfield might be drawing to a close regardless.

Arne Slot, fresh off his Premier League-winning debut season, has shown a clear eye for refreshing the squad. The signing of Florian Wirtz raised eyebrows across Europe, and a move for Alexander Isak would further underline that Liverpool are building for sustained success. Yet, for many supporters, the idea of Núñez leaving without fully delivering on his early promise feels like unfinished business.

Núñez has given fans moments of joy, chaos and frustration in equal measure. His pressing fits Slot’s style, and his ability to stretch defences has been crucial, even when the goals have not always flowed. If Liverpool can secure a top-tier replacement, it may be the right moment to part ways. But if no replacement comes, letting him go would be a huge risk.

The Saudi interest adds another layer. While it could bring in significant funds, many Kopites would prefer to see Núñez given one more season to explode under Slot’s attacking philosophy. In short, this story is far from over, and Liverpool’s next moves in the window will be watched intensely.