Darwin Nunez edges closer to Newcastle deal, ‘huge personal terms’ need to be thrashed out
Darwin Nunez’s chances of moving to Newcastle United this summer are continually growing stronger, sources have told Football Insider.
The 26-year-old is edging towards an exit from Al-Hilal, with a return to European football understood to be growing “more and more likely” ahead of next season.
Newcastle are long-term admirers of the Uruguayan and are already planning to revamp their attack for Eddie Howe for 2026-27.
The Magpies are unsatisfied with their current options, and feel that a new frontman could hold the key to them improving on the pitch next term.
Newcastle have money to spend in the summer market once again, and a lucrative move for Nunez is firmly on their radar, with his future at Al-Hilal all but settled.
🔄 Newcastle Transfer Update 🔄
Breaking news on deals in progress, signings, departures, and contract news from the Newcastle United boardroom.
VISIT THE NEWCASTLE TRANSFER HUBNewcastle among clubs vying for ‘huge contract’
Football Insider revealed earlier this week that Newcastle are battling for Nunez’s signature alongside the likes of Chelsea and Juventus, but a deal will not be cheap for any of the interested parties.
Recent reports have suggested that the former Liverpool star could potentially have his contract terminated one year early by Al-Hilal, a move which would make him available on a free transfer.
| Stats | Nunez | Woltemade | Wissa |
| Apps (Starts) | 16 (14) | 31 (22) | 17 (4) |
| Goals | 6 | 7 | 1 |
| Goals per 90 | 0.43 | 0.36 | 0.18 |
| Shots on Target per 90 | 1.65 | 0.61 | 0.91 |
| Big Chances Missed per 90 | 1 | 0.31 | 1.1 |
| Conversion Rate | 14% | 22.6% | 7.7% |
However, sources have already made it clear that Newcastle and Co. would need to come close to matching the “huge contract” that the forward has held in the Middle East if they are to have a genuine chance of landing him this summer.
Nunez has found himself firmly out of favour at Al-Hilal in recent months, as he hasn’t featured as part of their matchday squad since the middle of February.
He has been on the radar at St James’ Park for several years now, with Newcastle tempted by moves for him during his time at both Benfica and Liverpool.
A move to the North East could finally become a reality this time around, with the Newcastle hierarchy determined to help the team push back towards the European places next term.
Will Osula ‘more than happy to stay’ at St James’
Football Insider revealed earlier this week that striker Will Osula has no desire to leave Newcastle this summer, despite the growing interest in his services.
Aston Villa, Everton and Bayer Leverkusen have all been linked with moves for him, while Eintracht Frankfurt came within a whisker of securing his services back in January.
However, the increase in gametime since then has left the Dane “more than happy” to stay on Tyneside for another season, rather than push for a move elsewhere ahead of next term.
The youngster is understood to have impressed Howe with his recent displays and is keen to continue proving that he has what it takes to be an effective option for the Magpies.
Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Newcastle Insider Access
Get the full story from St James’ Park and Darsley Park with our dedicated expert hubs:
Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Tyneside.