Liverpool could be gambling on Darwin Nunez return after Arne Slot’s warning to Andoni Iraola

Liverpool have proved they’re desperate to sign a new striker amid Alexander Isak’s injury-hit first season at Anfield.

A report from Uruguay, via Sport Witness, claims that Nunez will return to Liverpool this summer just 12 months after he left the club to move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.

Nunez spent three years on Merseyside, before Liverpool earned £46.3million from his sale last summer, which went towards signing Isak, and Hugo Ekitike.

Whilst Isak only scored three Premier League goals in his debut campaign, Ekitike’s Achilles rupture suffered against PSG in April means the Reds were likely to source a new striker this summer.

Andoni Iraola is facing a busy first transfer window as Liverpool boss, with the centre-back position also a priority alongside his attack.

Re‑signing Nunez could be a risk for Iraola, especially if he takes on board what Arne Slot previously said about the striker.

What did Arne Slot say about Darwin Nunez?

Iraola should be concerned about Nunez’s return based on comments made by Slot in February 2025.

The Dutch boss publicly criticised Nunez's work rate on two occasions following back-to-back matches against Wolves and Aston Villa.

Following those two games, Slot told the media in a press conference: "For the second time in a row I wasn't happy with his work effort, against Wolves and against Villa.

"I can't accept if a player doesn't give everything. That is clear. I can accept it once, but twice was a bit too much. That's why I addressed it.

"If you miss a chance, you need to be fighting for the team."

Iraola’s high intensity style of play means that Nunez would have to work hard under the Spaniard to fit into his system. 

Meanwhile, former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Iraola is unlikely to make a move to reunite with Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi at Anfield.

Why would Liverpool want to re-sign Darwin Nunez?

Nunez’s contract at Al-Hilal could be terminated early, which would make him a free agent, as the Uruguayan sits below Karim Benzema in the pecking order at the Saudi club.

This would be appealing to Liverpool as it would save Iraola vital funds to strengthen the squad elsewhere.

However, a look at Nunez’s last season at Anfield highlights that Iraola could be making a mistake, if he is relying on the 26-year-old.

Nunez only scored five Premier League goals in 30 appearances, and missed nine big chances.

Iraola will be hoping that Isak can stay fit, as the 26-year-old is a far more lethal finisher in front of goal.