Report: £85m Liverpool forward close to agreeing switch to Atletico Madrid | OneFootball

Darwin Núñez Nears Exit: Anfield Future Fades as Atlético Beckons

Núñez’s Time at Anfield Nears the End

It always felt like Darwin Núñez’s Liverpool career walked a tightrope between chaos and brilliance. Signed for a club-record fee of £85 million in 2022, the Uruguayan forward arrived with explosive pace, raw potential, and expectations that soared as high as his price tag. Three years later, his Anfield chapter appears to be closing—with Cadena Ser reporting a “verbal agreement” has been reached for the 25-year-old to join Atlético Madrid.

After flashes of promise under Jürgen Klopp, Núñez’s progress has stuttered under boss Arne Slot. Once a favourite for his unpredictability and pressing aggression, the striker now finds himself increasingly marginalised. Slot, working closely with sporting director Richard Hughes, is reportedly seeking a more refined presence up front—someone capable of delivering consistent returns in big moments.

Spanish Interest Outweighs Saudi Millions

According to the Cadena Ser report, Atlético Madrid have “already spoken with the Uruguayan striker” and received his “full approval” to pursue a transfer. Despite interest from Saudi Arabia, Núñez has chosen the challenge of LaLiga, showing a clear preference for staying in European football’s elite structure.

Photo: IMAGO

Núñez “would be delighted to join Atlético de Madrid”—a decision that reflects a player who, even amid inconsistency, values high-level competition over financial windfalls.

Atlético Must Now Make Their Move

Despite the verbal agreement, there’s work to be done. As Cadena Ser notes, Liverpool are “not prepared to give the striker away,” and Atlético must first offload Ángel Correa before progressing. Financial details remain unresolved, but the framework for an exit is in place.

Should Núñez depart, his Liverpool career will be remembered for missed chances as much as memorable ones. In 65 Premier League appearances, he’s delivered 20 goals—a modest return considering his fee and potential. Yet, for all the wild finishes and frustrated gestures, he never hid. He ran, he pressed, he tried.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, there’s disappointment, but not necessarily surprise. Darwin Núñez was never a perfect fit, but he was endearing. His desire to impress was evident, even when the execution faltered. Some fans will point to poor service or inconsistent use; others will highlight the missed sitters in key games. Both are true.

That said, it’s hard to argue with the club’s logic. Slot’s system appears to demand more composure in attack, more tactical discipline. If Núñez isn’t that player, it’s better to move him on now—particularly with other areas of the squad also in need of attention. Recouping a significant portion of the original fee and reinvesting in a younger, more clinical forward could prove astute.

There’s also a sense that Núñez could thrive in Spain. Diego Simeone’s Atlético often welcomes flawed geniuses, and the lower defensive line of LaLiga may suit his game. Fans will wish him well, but they’ll also want Liverpool to act decisively in replacing him. Because for all his imperfections, Núñez was never dull—and dull is the one thing Liverpool should never be.