Darwin Nunez's tenure at Al-Hilal has hit turbulence, with the Uruguayan forward voicing discontent over his exclusion from the Saudi Pro League squad—a move that confines him to Asian Champions League duties. As Fabrizio Romano highlights this as a key summer storyline, clubs like Newcastle United loom as potential suitors, though financial disparities pose significant barriers to a European repatriation.
Unpacking the Squad Exclusion
The decision, as explained by Al-Hilal head coach Simone Inzaghi—appointed in summer 2025 on a three-year deal—stems from league regulations limiting foreign players born before 2003 to eight per squad. Karim Benzema's January arrival from Al-Ittihad forced choices, with Nunez and Pablo Mari sidelined. Inzaghi noted: "The decision was difficult, but that's the job of a coach. Nunez and Pablo are good players. I want them in all competitions, but we know the restrictions."
Nunez, who joined Al-Hilal in summer 2025 for around ÂŁ95 million on a contract to 2028 earning ÂŁ300,000 weekly, has contributed five goals in continental play but seen limited action overall. No fresh injuries reported after a brief hamstring issue in October 2025, his form has been steady in sporadic outings, blending physicality with improved link-up under Inzaghi's possession focus.
Romano's Insights on Summer Prospects
Fabrizio Romano, in his YouTube update relayed via NewcastleWorld, framed Nunez as "a big topic for the summer transfer window." He added: "Darwin Nunez is not happy at all about the situation... It will be up to Darwin to decide whether he wants to go somewhere where he can get big money as he’s doing at Al-Hilal, or maybe go back to Europe (for less money)." This underscores the salary gulf as pivotal, with European wages likely halved.
No concrete offers yet, but monitoring from Europe persists. Newcastle's prior pursuit—before his 2022 Liverpool move and during Alexander Isak links—positions them credibly, though no active talks confirmed.
Newcastle's Fit and Squad Context
Under Eddie Howe, in charge since 2021 despite mounting mid-table pressure, Newcastle seek attacking reinforcement amid Isak's injury spells. Nunez's pace and aerial threat align with Howe's direct style, potentially partnering Callum Wilson to address goal shortages against compact defences. At St James' Park, he could revive his Premier League familiarity, where he scored 11 in 2024/25 for Liverpool before his Saudi switch.
However, Newcastle's PSR constraints post recent investments like Sandro Tonali limit extravagance. A ÂŁ65 million tag, floated in reports, represents value but demands wage concessions from Nunez's lucrative deal.
Market Signals and Valuation Dynamics
Betting trends show movement, with European return odds shortening in the Darwin Nunez next club odds, reflecting scepticism over Saudi longevity. Newcastle features, but broader interest from Italy and Spain drifts prices, indicating market caution amid his unhappiness.
Financial and Tactical Realities
A salary drop looms large; Nunez's ÂŁ300,000 weekly earnings dwarf European norms, risking negotiations stalling. For Al-Hilal, cashing in funds reinforcements under Inzaghi, who has publicly backed Nunez despite the snub. Tactically, Newcastle gains a dynamic No 9, but integration risks persist given his profligacy critiques from Liverpool days.
Broader, this episode mirrors Saudi football's volatility, where squad rules disrupt high-profile arrivals, prompting reevaluations mid-career.
Path Forward in the Transfer Landscape
As the Asian Champions League progresses, Nunez's performances could inflate his price or affirm value. Newcastle's advantage lies in Premier League allure, but Howe's uncertain future—amid board scrutiny—adds layers. Romano's update tempers hype, pointing to a decision-driven saga where Nunez's priorities dictate. Expect clarity post-March internationals, underscoring how personal contentment intersects with economic pragmatism in elite transfers.