As first reported by the Daily Briefing, Chelsea have shown surprising interest in signing former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez from Al Hilal this summer.
My understanding is that Nunez is very likely to leave the Saudi Pro League club this summer, possibly on an initial loan deal.
Chelsea and Newcastle are seen as strong suitors for the Uruguayan international who is keen to return to Europe, according to industry insiders.
Nunez may not be in the favor of all fans as he spent various spells at Liverpool, but during his time in England he scored 25 goals in the Premier League, winning one top-flight title in the process.
Sources on Darwin Nunez’s possible move to Chelsea
“Premier League clubs linked to sign Nunez“There is a very concrete possibility that he will leave Al Hilal and return to Europe this summer,” a source explained to me.
“Chelsea have always liked Nunez and still see him as a player who can add sparkle and depth to their forward line.”
It remains to be seen whether CFC will make Nuñez a priority, but interest in the 26-year-old exists and appears available.
The problem, however, is his high salary of £400,000 a week at Al Hilal, but he may be prepared to take a pay cut to leave Saudi Arabia.
Is Darwin Nunez right for Chelsea?
Using the methodology of the Transfer Fit rating system, we judge Nunez to be a medium-level fit for Chelsea, but certainly at the bottom of the mid-level.
As you can see below, Nunez fits the bill as a relatively proven striker, which is what Chelsea need, so he’s definitely an upgrade over the struggling Liam Delap, even if he’s far from the best in the world.
| darwin nunes | Total score: 12/25 |
| Transfer fee | ** |
| performance | * |
| performance | *** |
| career phase | ** |
| The need for squads | **** |
But he’s not doing well and he’s not getting any younger, so it’s hard to see him suddenly growing up so much as he approaches his late 20s.
Being acquired on loan or perhaps on the cheap would boost his score slightly, but there is also uncertainty as to exactly how that deal will be structured.
Do you think Nunez is a good fit for Chelsea? Let us know your opinion in the comments!
