Napoli’s ambitious summer recruitment continues as they step up efforts to sign Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, submitting a verbal offer worth over €43 million for the Uruguayan international.
Sources close to the negotiation confirm that Napoli have made Nunez their top attacking priority, with Antonio Conte eager to add an explosive presence alongside Romelu Lukaku for the 2025–26 Serie A campaign.
Despite early reports in Italy quoting a €70m valuation, it’s now understood that Liverpool would accept a fee in the region of €50m plus bonuses, putting the deal firmly within Napoli’s reach.
Would Darwin Nunez Join Napoli?
After rejecting a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League, Nunez has made it clear he prefers to remain in Europe.
The 25-year-old struggled for form and consistency at Anfield last season, scoring just seven goals in 47 appearances and falling out of favor under new manager Arne Slot.
Slot’s public criticism of the striker’s work rate — particularly following a costly miss against Aston Villa — has only accelerated the club’s willingness to move him on.
Nunez arrived for a club-record £85m from Benfica, but now seems ready for a change of scenery.
Why Conte Wants Darwin Nunez
Liverpool are eager to resolve Nunez’s future quickly and avoid distractions heading into pre-season. Their asking price has reportedly dropped to €50m — a figure Napoli are actively negotiating to reach through add-ons and bonuses.
With Victor Osimhen expected to leave and Romelu Lukaku’s workload a concern, Conte is pushing for depth in the No. 9 role. Nunez’s physicality, speed, and international experience are seen as a perfect match for Napoli’s evolving attack.
The Serie A champions have already secured Kevin De Bruyne on a free transfer from Manchester City and are positioning themselves as serious contenders in both domestic and continental competitions next season.
A move for Nunez would mark another major coup for the Partenopei, who have also made a €30 million bid for Brighton’s Matt O’Riley and are keeping tabs on Ademola Lookman.
Darwin Nunez Napoli Alternatives
While Lorenzo Lucca of Udinese remains on the club’s radar, sources indicate he’s viewed as a fallback option should the Nunez deal collapse. Napoli have held early talks with Lucca’s representatives but have not made a formal offer yet.
Conte reportedly prefers Nunez, who has already racked up 40 goals and 26 assists in 143 appearances since joining Liverpool and offers a higher ceiling on the European stage.
For more on the biggest moves in Serie A and beyond, check out our regularly updated guides to the best betting apps as the summer window heats up.
