Quick Read
- Darwin Núñez has been excluded from Al Hilal’s squad due to Saudi foreign-player quotas.
- Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are actively monitoring Núñez for a potential summer transfer.
- Al Hilal coach Simone Inzaghi confirmed the difficult decision was due to registration restrictions.
- Núñez moved to Al Hilal from Liverpool last summer for £46.1 million plus bonuses.
- Atlético Madrid, Juventus, and Barcelona’s technical staff also hold long-term interest in the striker.
YEREVAN (Azat TV) – Former Liverpool striker Darwin Núñez is reportedly on the radar of several top European clubs, most notably Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United, following his unexpected exclusion from Al Hilal’s squad in Saudi Arabia. The 26-year-old Uruguayan international has found himself sidelined due to strict foreign-player quotas imposed after the arrival of star forward Karim Benzema, sparking widespread speculation about a potential return to the Premier League or a move to another major European league.
Núñez, who joined Al Hilal last summer from Liverpool for £46.1 million plus bonuses, was dropped from the Saudi club’s league and cup squads earlier this month. Al Hilal coach Simone Inzaghi confirmed the difficult decision, stating, “He makes a lot of decisions every day, even in every training session. Núñez and Pablo Mari are good players. I want them in all competitions, but we know the restrictions on registering foreign players.” Saudi clubs are permitted to register only eight foreign players born before 2003 on their 25-man roster, a rule that has directly impacted Núñez’s playing time despite his nine goals this season. His apparent displeasure was noted when he reportedly sent a message to Al Hilal’s owners during an AFC Champions League match on February 16, signaling his frustration with the situation.
Premier League Clubs Eye Darwin Nunez
Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are among the Premier League clubs actively monitoring Núñez’s delicate situation at Al Hilal, according to reports from TEAMtalk and Gazeta Express. Intermediaries have already initiated contacts ahead of the summer transfer window, exploring the possibility of bringing the prolific striker back to England. Both clubs are believed to have held talks with agents regarding his availability, with the prospect of a significant reduction in his transfer fee being a key factor for any potential move.
European Interest Beyond England for Darwin Nunez
Beyond the Premier League, several other European giants have expressed long-term admiration for Darwin Núñez. Atlético Madrid and Juventus are reportedly interested in a move if the opportunity arises and the financial terms are within their reach. Furthermore, Barcelona’s technical staff has long valued the Uruguayan striker, suggesting he could be a target for the Catalan club should he become available. His future in Saudi Arabia remains unclear, opening the door for a high-profile transfer saga this summer.
The Quota Conundrum and Its Impact
The foreign-player quota system in the Saudi Pro League has created an unforeseen challenge for clubs like Al Hilal, particularly after high-profile acquisitions. The arrival of Karim Benzema in January 2026 pushed Al Hilal over their foreign player limit, forcing Coach Inzaghi to make tough decisions regarding squad registration. This regulatory constraint is the primary catalyst behind Núñez’s current predicament, transforming a seemingly stable move to Saudi Arabia into a temporary setback and potentially paving the way for his swift return to European football. His situation highlights the complexities of squad management in leagues with strict international player limits.
The unfolding situation with Darwin Núñez underscores the volatile nature of modern football transfers, where squad regulations and unexpected arrivals can swiftly alter a player’s trajectory, making his potential availability a significant opportunity for European clubs seeking a proven goalscorer.