Liverpool set to sell big-name forward to finance Alexander Isak deal

Despite flashes of promise, Nunez struggled to deliver consistent performances in a Liverpool shirt. He gradually slipped down the pecking order, drawing increasing criticism for his inefficiency in front of the goal. 

Al Hilal is said to be offering a fixed fee of £46.2M, with performance-related bonuses taking the potential total to £56.6 million. Nunez is expected to sign a lucrative multiyear contract.

While the transfer represents a financial setback, it aligns with Liverpool’s wider strategy of refreshing its squad under new head coach Arne Slot. 

The club has already spent close to £275M ($350M) this summer on high-profile signings, including Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong, showcasing a bold rebuild following last season’s Premier League title triumph.

Funds from the Nunez sale are expected to be redirected toward Liverpool’s pursuit of Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak. The Reds’ initial £120M package for the Sweden international was rejected, but they are reportedly preparing a revised bid. 

Isak has recently been training away from Newcastle’s first team following his return from injury, and Liverpool is hopeful of capitalizing, although a deal may hinge on Newcastle securing a replacement.

The Magpies are said to be wary of losing out on RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, with Manchester United attempting to hijack that move. Still, Liverpool currently faces little direct competition for Isak and views him as a key piece in its attacking plans.

Moving Nunez is a critical step in freeing up both funds and squad space as Liverpool aims to land yet another marquee forward it believes can lead its frontline in the Slot era.