Darwin Nunez contract 'terminated' amid links to two Premier League clubs

Darwin Nunez's contract with Al Hilal has reportedly been terminated, and he could be on his way back to the Premier League.

In 2022, Uruguayan striker Nunez completed a move to join Liverpool from Portuguese side Benfica in a transfer worth €75million (£64m)

After three years at Anfield, Nunez left Liverpool after winning the 2024–25 Premier League, joining Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal for €53m (£46m).

Since then, the 26-year-old has struggled to make a lasting impact, an issue made worse by the arrival of Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema earlier this year.

Therefore, it has been reported that the former Liverpool star has mutually terminated his contract with Al-Hilal, leaving him open to a return to England in the summer.

As reported by The Mirror, the arrival of Benzema, which led to Nunez losing his place in the squad due to the Saudi Pro league's foreign-player rule capping each squad at ten foreigners, with eight over-20s and two under-20s, is what has led to the decision for him to leave.

In total, the striker made 22 appearances, scoring nine goals and registering five assists.

Comparatively, Benzema has made 10 less appearances since making debut in February and has already matched Nunez's output on both factors.

Premier League clubs linked with a stunning move for Darwin Nunez

Despite this, two Premier League clubs are reportedly considering a move for Nunez, who is now available as a free agent.

Although a return to Liverpool is completely off the cards, the report claims that both Newcastle United and Chelsea are monitoring Nunez's situation.

But they aren't the only club believed to be interested as Italian giants Juventus are believed to be considering a move to replace Dusan Vlahovic, who will leave the club this summer.

However, Nunez's future could depend on his involvement, or lack thereof, at the World Cup with Uruguay over the summer.

Given the fact he has not featured in a club match since February 16, it is currently unknown if Nunez will feature in Marcelo Bielsa's squad.

Even if he is selected, his minutes are far from secured, with his last appearances for his country coming during the friendlies against England and Algeria at the end of March.

Nunez came on as a late late substitute in both matches and therefore it would appear that he is likely to make it to North America in the summer.

And should he perform well, it's likely there will be several other clubs debating signing him as a free agent.