Atletico Madrid are weighing up a move for Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, who also continues to attract interest from Saudi Arabia.
The Reds paid an initial fee of around £64million to sign Nunez from Benfica during the summer of 2022.
While the Uruguayan arrived as a raw talent, his development has not progressed as much as Liverpool’s hierarchy had hoped.
Darwin Nunez has registered 40 goals and 24 assists in 136 appearances across all competitions for Liverpool.
However, since Arne Slot’s arrival, he has fallen down the pecking order, making just eight Premier League starts this season. As a result, a summer exit appears increasingly likely.
The 25-year-old drew interest from the Saudi Pro League in January, with Al Nassr actively searching for a new striker.
Liverpool rejected their bid, unwilling to offload Nunez or other key players during a Premier League title race. Al Nassr eventually turned to Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran as an alternative.
According to GiveMeSport’s Ben Jacobs, it “remains to be seen” whether Al Nassr will revive their pursuit of Nunez this summer.
However, Atletico Madrid have emerged as a more credible destination, as they look for a potential replacement for Antoine Griezmann, who is being courted by MLS side Los Angeles FC.
Jacobs reports that Atletico are considering a bid in the region of €35-€40 million (around £30-£33 million). However, the structure of the deal will be crucial if they decide to proceed with an offer.
“The 25-year-old could leave Anfield this summer as Reds boss Arne Slot will prioritise buying a new No.9,” Jacobs said.
“Atletico Madrid plan to add a new striker as Antoine Griezmann is likely to leave the club.
“Los Angeles FC have been working on signing the French forward since last year, and his current employers are open to an exit this summer with the 33-year-old heading into the final year of his contract.
“Sources believe the La Liga giants are contemplating a loan with an obligation for Nunez in the region of €35-40million, although no contact has been made with Liverpool yet.
“Nunez was the subject of an Al-Nassr approach in January for around double that amount, but both Liverpool and the Uruguayan didn’t want a mid-season move.”