Report: Milan and Napoli increase demand and price for unwanted Reds forward | OneFootball

Darwin Núñez’s Liverpool Exit: A Necessary Loss as Slot Ushers in a New Era

From Heavy Metal to Measured Control: Why Darwin Núñez No Longer Fits the Tune at Anfield

Liverpool’s attacking threat remains one of the most revered in Europe — a frontline blessed with pace, flair, and goals. Yet as the club enters a new chapter under Arne Slot, the harmony in attack is shifting. The Dutchman’s tactical approach is more calculated than Jurgen Klopp’s chaotic brilliance, and while the style is still forward-thinking, it leans on structure, not just speed.

This evolution has already started to pay dividends. Several players — from Cody Gakpo to Luis Díaz — enjoyed statistical upticks last season. But amid that collective rise, Darwin Núñez was left behind.

Three years after arriving for a fee that could rise to £85 million, Núñez still feels like an unfinished product. Erratic finishing, decision-making lapses, and a frustrating inconsistency have defined his Liverpool career. Despite flashes of brilliance and a handful of crucial goals, the Uruguayan has failed to convince either Klopp or, now seemingly, Slot.

It’s telling that Núñez was overlooked for key fixtures last term — a clear indication that he’s no longer trusted to lead the line in Liverpool’s biggest moments.

European Giants Circle as Exit Beckons

Despite his mixed spell on Merseyside, Núñez is not short of admirers. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, AC Milan have identified him as a potential summer signing. Their interest isn’t new either — when Liverpool met Milan in last season’s Champions League group stage, Núñez swapped shirts and was pictured donning the Rossoneri colours, a sight many fans said looked oddly natural.

Now, that image could soon become a reality.

Milan, however, are not alone. Napoli are believed to be keen, especially with Victor Osimhen likely to depart. Atlético Madrid and clubs in Saudi Arabia also remain interested, suggesting Liverpool could benefit from a multi-club bidding war — something the club will welcome as they attempt to recover as much of their initial investment as possible.

Liverpool Rejected €70m — But Time Is Ticking

Back in January, Liverpool turned down a €70 million (£59.2m) offer for Núñez, holding firm on their valuation. While breaking even remains a long shot, a fee north of £60m would go a long way in softening the financial blow.

But there’s more than just money at stake here. Slot’s Liverpool will likely generate even more chances next season with their controlled attacking build-up. For a clinical striker, that’s a dream scenario. For Núñez, though, it may simply magnify his flaws.

His movement is rarely the issue. His ability to disrupt defences, stretch lines, and play on the shoulder is elite. But what has plagued him — and what continues to hold him back — is the final touch. Too many missed chances. Too many big moments not taken.

Time to Cut Ties and Reinvest in a New No. 9

Núñez is 25. He should be entering his prime. Yet the sense of promise has not materialised into sustained performance at Liverpool. In a side aiming to compete on four fronts again, inconsistency cannot be tolerated — particularly not up front.

There’s a feeling among the Anfield faithful that Núñez was liked, maybe even loved, for his endeavour and spirit. But football at the highest level is ruthless.

Cutting their losses and cashing in while his market is still strong seems the most logical route. Replacing him with a more reliable finisher could prove the decisive move in Slot’s first season, especially if Liverpool want to stay in the title picture and push deep in Europe.

Núñez’s time at Liverpool might be remembered fondly in moments, but never as the era-defining spell it was meant to be.