Image source: Liverpool fc
Darwin Nunez Possible Departure
When Darwin Núñez signed for Liverpool in 2022, the excitement was palpable. The Uruguayan came with big-money expectations an eye‑watering fee that some still debate. Fast forward to mid‑2025, and the narrative has shifted: rather than being parachuted in as the long-term number nine, Núñez finds himself nudged out of the first team and eyeing a move elsewhere.
Struggles at Anfield
Darwin’s initial spark was undeniable. With 40 goals and 26 assists across 143 games for Liverpool, he helped drive the team forward. But those numbers tell only part of the story. Under Arne Slot’s system, Núñez struggled to secure regular starts just eight in the Premier League last season . Despite being physically imposing and capable of playing across the front line, there were inconsistencies in his performances. It’s clear Reds see fit to move pieces around and reallocate resources.
Napoli turning up the interest
Enter Napoli, fresh off their Serie A title win. Across several reports, they’re now leading the pack for Núñez. The Italian side has set tight deadlines, suggesting they’ll decide within days whether to meet Liverpool’s valuation. It’s believed Napoli want him as their top transfer priority and have even given a two‑day window to Liverpool to come to a deal .
The offer? It appears to be a tug-of-war. Reds are holding out for around €60–65 million, while Napoli are pushing for a lower fee reports mention €50 million as the starting point . Sources close to Napoli claim Núñez himself has told them, “I’m coming to Napoli” . That certainly adds weight to the speculation that his Anfield exit is imminent.
A strange twist of fate adds salt to the transfer wound: during his January 2020 move, Reds opted not to sign Alexander Isak, reportedly due to Klopps’s preference for Núñez . Fast‑forward through missed chances and changing fortunes, and Liverpool might now cash in on the right striker at the wrong time. It’s become a cautionary tale of chasing instincts over data.
At full‑back: Andy Robertson under threat as Milos Kerkez arrives
While Núñez may be preparing for pastures new, Liverpool’s left side is now at the centre of a shift. Enter Milos Kerkez, the 21‑year‑old Hungarian left-back Liverpool signed from Bournemouth for around £40 million . The fee makes him among the club’s priciest defensive signings right up there with the likes of Frimpong.
Why Kerkez?
Reds intentionally went for Kerkez. Across two Premier League seasons with Bournemouth, he proved reliable, energetic, and adept at both defending and attacking. He’s young 21 versatile, and now part of a strategic squad overhaul. His signing fits a clear vision: long‑term reinvestment in youth and adaptability.
What it means for Robertson
Andy Robertson, by contrast, is no spring chicken. At 31, his attacking numbers have dipped just four assists in the past two seasons after earlier peaks . He still played 45 games last season and helped Liverpool to the Premier League title, but the emergence of Kerkez throws a new light on his role . It wasn’t a sign of decline; Reds were still winning, but it was clear the club is planning for its future, not its present.
Sources suggest Robertson is open to a move to Atlético Madrid, perhaps in search of guaranteed playing time, amid reports that Liverpool consider Kerkez the natural heir to the left‑back slot . The context: Robertson is entering the final year of his contract and negotiating competition at his position. In Madrid, he’d find Europe’s elite football, Champions League nights, and a consistent starting role.
A summer in transit: financial recalibration and squad evolution
Liverpool’s summer activity isn’t random it’s a conscious rebalancing. Let’s run through the picture.
Cashing in and reinvesting
Reds spent big this window signing Florian Wirtz in a blockbuster deal for £100–116 million, bringing in Frimpong (£29.5 million), goalkeeper Armin Pécsi, and now Kerkez, taking transfer spending close to £196 million . To fund that level, they need sales. Núñez is first to be moved. His sale, even at a loss, will help.
Shaping the squad
Reds clearly want sharper, younger signposts along both flanks. Frimpong for the right, Kerkez for the left. Slot’s final window saw Trent go; this window, Robertson may follow. The goal is to maintain elite competitiveness while minimizing aging core risk.
The potential arrival of Viktor Gyökeres mentioned as a Núñez replacement adds another layer. Reds appear eyeing him, though Sporting are asking a far bigger fee. So the blueprint is clear: wage and function reshape, focusing on high-output young aides who can both serve today and carry the club forward.
Conclusion
For Núñez, a move to Napoli brings a fresh start after years of promise mingled with struggle. He’s reportedly keen to stay in Europe and be loved somewhere else a chance to become the striker Reds hoped he’d be.
For Robertson, it’s a nod to the inevitability of generational transition. He may choose an Atlético exit, giving a young talent a larger stage and himself more minutes at once of his career. For the club, it’s cold, hard, careful financial engineering, funding youthful upgrades that promise to maintain competitiveness and future‑proof the squad.
This summer is both an ending and a beginning. Reds are still ambitious, competitive, and unwilling to linger in limbo. They’re crafting a new look as they chase domestic dominance and European challenge, with Núñez and Robertson representing the old guard making way for rising stars.
In the weeks ahead, expect confirmation. Napoli’s deadline looms on Núñez. Robertson’s situation at Manchester Real or Atelico Madrid? might settle once Kerkez gets his pre-season stride. But across this change, Reds keep marching their vision sharp, their ambition unchanged.
🔴Find the Latest News on Player Ratings | Transfers | Prematch | Postmatch
Thank you for your continued support, and let’s cheer Liverpool on to success in the upcoming match. Your thoughts are always welcome in the comments section. For further insights, you may explore the official Liverpool FC website by clicking here.
YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com