Liverpool Prioritize New Striker as Nunez Exit Talks Accelerate; Chelsea Star Among Key Targets
Liverpool Make Striker Search Top Priority as Nunez Exit Talks Accelerate
By Tum Balogun | Updated: 10:24 BST, 15 July 2025
Liverpool are prioritizing the signing of a marquee striker this summer, with Darwin Núñez’s anticipated departure set to accelerate. The Uruguayan forward has attracted interest from Napoli and Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, though the Reds’ £70m valuation could complicate negotiations.
[Image: Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes and head coach Arne Slot discussing tactics.]
Caption: Liverpool’s leadership, including Richard Hughes (left) and Arne Slot (right), are focused on securing a new striker.
Núñez, 26, remains a key figure in Napoli’s plans, with president Aurelio De Laurentiis reportedly leading talks. However, the Italian club has alternative options like Udinese’s Lorenzo Lucca (£34m). Al-Hilal’s financial muscle may prove decisive if Liverpool hold firm on their asking price.
Striker Shortlist Takes Shape
Newcastle’s Alexander Isak and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike top Liverpool’s list of targets. Isak’s clinical form (24 goals last season) makes him ideal, but Newcastle’s £100m+ demands pose a hurdle. Ekitike, meanwhile, has impressed Bundesliga scouts and could be a more affordable option at £50m.
[Image: Alexander Isak celebrating a goal for Newcastle.]
Caption: Alexander Isak’s goalscoring prowess has made him a prime Liverpool target.
A surprise name linked is Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson. Reds sporting director Richard Hughes admires the Senegalese striker from his Bournemouth tenure, but a move now seems unlikely given his Chelsea contract.
Domino Effect in the Market
Liverpool’s earlier targets—Viktor Gyökeres, Victor Osimhen, and João Pedro—have moved elsewhere. Pedro joined Chelsea for £60m, while Gyökeres and Osimhen edge closer to Arsenal and Galatasaray respectively. This narrows Liverpool’s focus to Isak and Ekitike, though finances remain a concern after three major signings: Florian Wirtz (£75m), Jeremie Frimpong (£45m), and Giorgi Mamardashvili (£65m).
[Image: Darwin Núñez in action for Liverpool.]
Caption: Darwin Núñez’s potential exit could fund Liverpool’s striker pursuit.
Núñez Exit Key to Reinvestment
With bids for Luis Díaz rejected, Liverpool may need player sales to finance a top striker. Núñez’s departure would free significant wages and generate transfer funds. Napoli’s pursuit hinges on De Laurentiis’ willingness to meet Liverpool’s terms over cheaper alternatives like Lucca.
Jota’s Tragic Impact
The sudden passing of Diogo Jota has also reshaped Liverpool’s plans. The Portuguese forward, who scored 14 goals last season, was expected to play a pivotal role under Arne Slot. His absence leaves a tactical void, further emphasizing the need for attacking reinforcements.
[Image: Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis in discussions.]
Caption: Napoli’s president Aurelio De Laurentiis is personally negotiating for Núñez.
Looking Ahead
Liverpool’s hierarchy faces a pivotal fortnight. Securing a deal for Isak or Ekitike would signal ambition, but financial constraints mean Núñez’s exit must materialize first. With the season approaching, the Reds aim to avoid a prolonged saga and solidify their title-defending squad.
[Image: Nicolas Jackson training with Chelsea.]
Caption: Nicolas Jackson’s Chelsea commitment complicates Liverpool’s interest.
Stay tuned for updates on Liverpool’s transfer moves as the window heats up.
