Italian Nunez Negotiations & Alvarez a Target – Latest Liverpool FC News

Liverpool are facing yet another transfer saga this summer, with Darwin Nunez once again at the center of speculation. The Uruguayan striker, who joined the Reds in 2022 for a club-record fee from Benfica, is now reportedly on the radar of Serie A giants Napoli, led by newly appointed manager Antonio Conte.

According to a report from La Repubblica, Conte is said to be “crazy” about signing Nunez, viewing the 25-year-old as a central piece in his rebuild of the reigning Italian champions. While the Italian newspaper has a mixed record when it comes to transfer news, the growing whispers around Nunez’s future have added substance to the story.

It’s believed that preliminary negotiations have already taken place between Napoli and Nunez’s representatives. The striker, who has had an inconsistent spell at Anfield, could be enticed by a fresh start in Italy, particularly under the fiery and tactical Conte.

Interestingly, Napoli are also reportedly eyeing Federico Chiesa from Juventus, raising the possibility of a massive double swoop. Both Nunez and Chiesa could form a formidable attacking duo under Conte, but such a deal would require serious financial backing and quick maneuvering.

Liverpool, for their part, are said to be open to offers, but only if their valuation of over £59 million is met. According to talkSPORT, the Reds are not willing to let Nunez go on the cheap, especially considering his age, potential, and flashes of brilliance shown during his time at the club.

The Merseyside outfit is already drawing up contingency plans should Nunez leave. One name that has quickly emerged as a potential replacement is Julian Alvarez of Manchester City. Alvarez, who has played a supporting role behind Erling Haaland, could be tempted by more game time and a central role at Anfield.

Liverpool insiders have reportedly discussed the possibility of launching a move for Alvarez. The Argentine forward fits the mold of the “complete striker” that the Reds are seeking – fast, technically gifted, tactically versatile, and capable of playing across the front line.

Alvarez’s work rate and pressing ability also align with Arne Slot’s footballing philosophy. With Liverpool entering a new era under the Dutch manager, there’s a growing belief that the squad could benefit from a fresh attacking identity, one that Alvarez could lead.

However, landing Alvarez won’t be easy. Manchester City are unlikely to strengthen a direct rival without a significant fee involved. It may also depend on whether Alvarez himself pushes for a move, something he hasn’t publicly done—yet.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal have entered the race for Nunez, reportedly making contact with Liverpool earlier this week. The club is keen on adding the Uruguayan to their growing list of European stars and have the financial muscle to meet Liverpool’s demands.

Should Al Hilal make a formal offer, it could force Napoli to act fast. The pull of European football and the opportunity to work with Conte may keep Napoli in the fight, but matching the salary packages from the Saudi Pro League could be a stretch.

The coming weeks are shaping up to be decisive for Nunez. While his raw pace, energy, and aggressive style have impressed fans at times, his finishing has often let him down. A clean break might benefit both the player and the club as Liverpool look to evolve under new leadership.

For Liverpool, the bigger picture is clear: if Nunez goes, they need a top-tier replacement. Julian Alvarez fits the bill, but alternatives like Viktor Gyökeres or even a late move for Victor Osimhen might also be explored, depending on how the market unfolds.

There are also whispers that Liverpool might explore a younger, under-the-radar option, perhaps from South America or Eastern Europe, if their big-name targets prove unattainable. The club’s new recruitment team, working alongside Arne Slot, is believed to favor versatile, high-upside forwards.

Whatever happens, the Nunez saga will dominate Liverpool headlines throughout the transfer window. With interest coming from both Europe and the Middle East, fans should brace themselves for a whirlwind few months ahead.

For now, though, Darwin Nunez remains a Liverpool player. But with negotiations underway and the lure of a new chapter growing stronger, it seems only a matter of time before the next big move materializes.