Darwin Nunez's Liverpool exit edges closer in next stage of Reds' summer transfer plan

Al Hilal are ramping up their efforts to sign Liverpool's Darwin Nunez after identifying him as their priority target this summer. The Saudi side have eyed a number of strikers but have now landed on the Uruguayan.

Nunez's exit has been expected this summer, although a number of routes out of Anfield have been closed off. His form has tailed off and, despite once being the Reds' record-signing at £85million, Arne Slot is ready to move the striker on with the Middle East now his likely landing spot.

Back in January Liverpool turned down an offer from another Saudi side in Al Nassr, but Al Hilal have since come to the negotiating table and been told the conditions of the deal. The Athletic reports that no offer has been lodged, but the transfer moves have begun.

Al Hilal, now led by former Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi, had pursued Victor Osimhen before he joined Galatasaray. Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko were on their radar but both men were considered to be beyond them.

Nunez previously had a host of Europe's top sides eyeing his services following his breakout season with Benfica. At Liverpool though he's struggled for consistency, scoring 40 times in 143 games. However last year he only found the net seven times.

READ MORE: Eddie Howe casts new light on Alexander Isak's Liverpool transfer with fresh admission

READ MORE: Chelsea new boy Jorrel Hato explains why he joined Blues despite secret Liverpool visit

Aleksandar Mitrovic has led the line for Al Hilal since leaving Fulham to join the Saudi outfit, but they are looking to raid the Premier League for more attacking reinforcements.

Liverpool meanwhile have made adding more forwards a priority this summer, which has impacted on Nunez's standing at Anfield. Hugo Ekitike has been signed from Frankfurt for £79m and will aid the likes of Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo and new signing Florian Wirtz.

The Reds are now going after Isak, who has made it clear he wants to explore his options away from Newcastle. The Magpies have rejected an £110m offer for the Swedish frontman and Liverpool could return with a fresh offer if the striker does push harder for the exit door.

Nunez's possible sale could help finance a renewed bid for Isak with the club recently green lighting the departure of Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich, which has banked the Reds £65.5m.

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.