Darwin Núñez near return to Anfield as Free Agent this summer

Darwin Núñez Set for Sensational Liverpool Return on Free Transfer Darwin Núñez could be heading back to Anfield, with reports claiming he’s agreed to rejoin Liverpool on a free transfer after terminating his contract with Al-Hilal. The Uruguayan striker reportedly asked for any official announcement to be delayed until after the World Cup 2026 concludes, keeping focus on his national team for now. The move would be a full-circle moment. Núñez left Liverpool for Saudi Arabia in 2024 after a turbulent spell where his work rate was never questioned but his finishing divided fans. A “free transfer” return means Liverpool get a 28-year-old striker with Premier League experience without paying a fee, saving massive money in a market where strikers cost £80M+.

For Liverpool it would be a huge squad boost. Liverpool lost goals when Núñez left, and current options haven’t replaced his chaos/pressing. He knows Klopp’s system, the fans, and the league. On a free, it’s low-risk, high-reward and he would be a good addition to Andoni Iraola's squad and contribute depth, pace and experience to the Reds. If he rediscovers form, Liverpool get a proven 9 without breaking FFP. If not, they lose nothing. It also signals Liverpool are prioritizing “known quantities” over gambles. For Al-Hilal, losing Núñez for free is a PR hit. Saudi clubs spent billions to lure stars, and a contract termination sets a precedent that players can walk if unhappy. On the pitch, they lose a physical striker who fit their direct style. Off the pitch, it damages the “players come here and stay” narrative. What it means for Núñez is this is about redemption. He left Europe with critics calling him a flop. Returning to Liverpool on a free means he’s betting on himself. World Cup 2026 with Uruguay is his audition - play well there, come back to Anfield with confidence, and silence doubters. If it happens, Liverpool win financially and tactically. Núñez gets a second chance. Al-Hilal lose face.