Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez is reportedly being targeted by Serie A leaders Napoli as part of a wide-ranging summer recruitment drive ahead of their return to the Champions League next season.
Nunez has endured a mixed 2024-25 campaign at Anfield, making 27 Premier League appearances but starting just eight times. He has scored five goals and provided two assists in the league, but has struggled to convince under Arne Slot.
The Uruguayan’s patchy form and reduced role have fuelled speculation that Liverpool could be open to offers. Now Napoli are understood to be exploring the possibility of a move.
Reports in Corriere dello Sport state that Nunez is one of several high-profile names under consideration as Napoli look to strengthen their attack. Sporting director Giovanni Manna is leading the club’s transfer planning and seemingly sees Nunez as a player who could thrive in Serie A and help elevate the club’s European ambitions.
Napoli are currently three points clear at the top of the Serie A table with three games to go. Under the leadership of manager Antonio Conte, they have already secured their place in next season’s Champions League.
Manchester City captain Kevin De Bruyne is also said to be on Napoli’s shortlist. The 33-year-old is available on a free transfer this summer, and his wife, Michele Lacroix, was recently spotted in Naples, where she was apparently exploring housing options.
Darwin Nunez is reportedly among the players being eyed by Napoli for a summer transfer
Under manager Arne Slot, Nunez has started just eight league games for Liverpool this season
Antonio Conte’s Napoli side sit top of Serie A and will play in next season’s Champions League
The couple are familiar with the city through De Bruyne’s close friendship with former Napoli forward Dries Mertens, and they were married nearby on the Amalfi Coast in 2017.
In addition to De Bruyne and Nunez, Napoli are understood to be monitoring Porto’s Spanish forward Samu Omorodion, Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Lee Kang-in and Lille striker Jonathan David, who is also out of contract this summer.
Nunez joined Liverpool from Benfica in 2022 in a club-record transfer worth £85 million. The 25-year-old has since scored 25 Premier League goals in 92 appearances. He has also contributed 13 assists.
His current contract at Anfield is due to expire in June 2028.
