Hugo Ekitike move PUSHES Liverpool forward to Juventus

Liverpool played Stoke City in a behind-closed-doors friendly on Sunday, coming out on top 5-0. Among the goalscorers was Darwin Nunez - who hit a hat-trick against the Potters and sent a reminder of his quality.

It is unlikely to be enough to save his Anfield career however with the club willing to SELL the Uruguayan should a buyer be found.

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Nunez, 26, was Liverpool’s most expensive player ever when he joined from Benfica back in 2022. The player’s overall fee could reach £85m if all add-ons are achieved but he is instead likely to leave the club this summer for pastures new.

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He had ambitions to join Napoli - but that deal fell through as the Italian champions were unwilling to meet Liverpool’s demands.

Juventus enter race for Nunez

Then came links with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal - with Nunez reported to be considering a move to the Saudi Pro League if a stay in Europe could not be facilitated.

But a Serie A move could indeed beckon for Nunez with reports now emerging of Juventus’ interest.

Juve have lost Randal Kolo Muani at the end of his loan spell while Dusan Vlahovic is also overwhelmingly likely to depart. Although the Turin club have all but concluded the signing of free agent Jonathan David, new coach Igor Tudor wants more.

That’s according to a new report in La Stampa, which claims Juventus are now “monitoring” Nunez’s situation.

Darwin asking price is €60m

“The situation of Darwin Nunez, a target of Napoli and AC Milan in recent weeks, is being monitored,” reads a report on Il Bianconero.

“Juventus is considering a move for the Uruguayan, whom Liverpool have put on the market, especially now that they've closed on Hugo Ekitike.

“The asking price is around €60 million, and his long-term contract (expires in 2028), La Stampa reports, could facilitate a loan with a conditional obligation to buy. Intermediaries are working to find him a new club.”

So Liverpool may well accept an initial loan deal this summer with Juventus then obligated to pay for the transfer in full next year.

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Richard Hughes would prefer to have the money up front but so far in this transfer window the Reds have not had the necessary interest shown in Nunez for a deal to be done at that price.

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