Return of the miss specialist to Europe? Nunez and Juve are in contact

Juventus have taken their first concrete step toward a potential summer move for striker Darwin Nunez, initiating talks with Al-Hilal to assess the situation.

The Uruguayan’s spell in Saudi Arabia has taken an unexpected downturn after being left out of the Saudi Pro League squad by Simone Inzaghi for the remainder of the campaign, leaving a return to Europe as a real possibility—though it will largely depend on Juve securing a Champions League spot in what is shaping up to be a fiercely contested top-four battle.

Reports from Sky Sport indicate that the Turin club have made an initial approach as part of their broader planning for the upcoming transfer window. Their contact with Al-Hilal is, for now, exploratory, focused on understanding the terms under which the striker could become available.

Nunez only joined the Saudi side last summer from Liverpool in a deal valued at €53 million, and he remains under contract until June 2028. Before progressing any further, Juventus are weighing up the financial implications of such a move.

Everything hinges on their league finish. Qualification for the Champions League would significantly influence their ability to pursue the deal.

Despite the high expectations surrounding his arrival, the 26-year-old’s time in the Gulf has been inconsistent. He played a prominent role early in the season, featuring in 16 league matches and scoring six times. In total, he has registered 24 appearances across all competitions, contributing nine goals and five assists.

However, his situation changed dramatically during the winter break when Inzaghi made the surprising call to exclude him from the club’s list of eight registered foreign players. That decision effectively ruled him out of domestic competition for the rest of the season.

While he is no longer eligible to play in league matches, the former Benfica striker remains available for continental duties. He has appeared six times in the AFC Champions League Elite, scoring three goals and adding one assist. His next outing is set for April 13, when Al-Hilal face Al-Sadd in the round of 16.

That competition could represent his final opportunity to make an impact before a potential departure, offering him a stage to remind suitors of his finishing ability.

The next few months will be decisive for both player and club. Juventus, currently fifth in Serie A on 57 points, are just one point behind Como as the race for a top-four finish intensifies with seven games left to play.