Darwin Núñez Transfer to Saudi Arabia Could Open Door for Isak to Join Liverpool — And Benefit Benfica

 

Darwin Núñez Transfer Could Trigger Isak Move to Liverpool — And Benfica Could Profit

The Darwin Núñez transfer saga took a new twist this week, with reports from the BBC and The Athletic linking the Uruguayan striker with a move to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi club, coached by Simone Inzaghi, has reportedly made Núñez a top priority this transfer window, outbidding European clubs like AC Milan.

But the plot thickens: the same Saudi investment group — the Public Investment Fund (PIF) — controls both Al Hilal and Newcastle United, which could open the door for a chain reaction of transfers. This includes Alexander Isak possibly moving to Liverpool to fill the void left by Darwin, with Benfica also poised to benefit from the financial ripple effect.

---

Saudi Millions Could Fund Isak's Anfield Switch

The proposed Darwin Núñez transfer to Al Hilal could exceed €100 million, giving Liverpool significant funds to pursue a new forward. One of the top names being floated is Alexander Isak, Newcastle’s Swedish striker who impressed in the Premier League with his mobility and finishing.

Because both Al Hilal and Newcastle are owned by the PIF, the movement of players between these clubs — directly or indirectly — could be facilitated without the usual market complications. If Darwin joins Al Hilal, the funds could in effect return to Newcastle via Isak’s sale to Liverpool, making it a financial cycle controlled within the same ownership umbrella.

---

---

Darwin Núñez Transfer Would Also Benefit Benfica

Beyond Liverpool and Newcastle, Benfica could also see a financial boost if the Darwin Núñez transfer goes through. Under FIFA’s solidarity mechanism, clubs that helped develop a player between the ages of 12 and 23 are entitled to a percentage of future transfer fees.

Núñez played for Benfica between 2020 and 2022 — crucial development years — before his move to Anfield. As such, Benfica could receive up to 5% of the transfer fee, along with smaller percentages going to his earlier clubs, Almería and Peñarol.

---

---

Darwin Núñez's Mixed Journey at Liverpool

After joining Liverpool in 2022 from Benfica, Darwin Núñez has had a rollercoaster spell at Anfield. Despite scoring important goals and showing flashes of brilliance, his inconsistency in front of goal has drawn criticism. With the arrival of manager Arne Slot, Liverpool may see this summer as the right time to cash in.

The move to Saudi Arabia offers financial appeal for both player and club, especially with Al Hilal reportedly offering a salary package well beyond what European clubs can match.

---

---

Conclusion

The Darwin Núñez transfer could set off a domino effect across European and Middle Eastern football. Al Hilal gets its striker, Liverpool frees up funds and space for Alexander Isak, and Benfica earns a bonus without lifting a finger. With the Public Investment Fund behind both Al Hilal and Newcastle, this deal could be more than just a transfer — it could be a strategic reshuffle orchestrated behind the scenes.