Chelsea are ready to explore a move for Darwin Nunez amid reports that they have held talks over the Uruguayan striker, while Newcastle United also remain in the mix.
According to Mark Brus, Chelsea have held talks to some extent about the possibility of exploring a move for 26-year-old Premier League winner Darwin Nunez. The Uruguayan left Liverpool last summer for Saudi Arabia, but things have gone sideways for the striker, thus fuelling speculation over a return to Europe, with Newcastle United also thought to be in the mix.
Darwin Nunez endured a mixed spell during his stint in the Premier League with Liverpool. He was an important part of Jurgen Klopp’s plans, but not so much under Arne Slot. The Uruguayan managed five league goals in the latter’s first season, which ended with the Premier League title.
Nunez was shipped off to the Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, where he enjoyed a good opening period, but things took a twist in January. The Saudi Pro League giants seized the opportunity to bring in marquee player Karim Benzema following his fallout with Al-Ittihad, and the Frenchman’s arrival has resulted in Nunez’s demotion.
Nunez was de-registered from the squad for the league, which only allows a certain number of foreign nationals. Al-Hilal are reportedly open to considering offers for the attacker, while Nunez is also angling for a return to Europe, even if it means taking a hefty pay cut on his lucrative salary in Saudi Arabia.
Chelsea were linked with a move recently, and now it appears the Londoners may have held talks to some degree over the Uruguayan. The Blues are in the market for a physical striker who can pin down defenders and possibly replace the underperforming Liam Delap.
Darwin Nunez to Chelsea?
The Blues could assess the future potential of the 26-year-old Premier League winner before making a move, while they are also looking at other options amid links to Samu Aghehowa, among others. Chelsea are not alone in the race for Nunez, as Newcastle United have also been linked recently.
Eddie Howe is not thought to be pushing to sign the Uruguayan, which could open the pathway for Chelsea in the race for Nunez. There is still a chance the Magpies will continue to monitor his situation, as they could consider a deal if it suits their budget. For now, Chelsea may be ahead in the race, although the Uruguayan is not viewed as their top target at this stage.