Liverpool Transfer News: Darwin Nunez Return and Andoni Iraola Free Transfer Rumors
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Liverpool Football Club is exploring multiple transfer avenues as manager Arne Slot seeks to strengthen his squad ahead of the 2026-27 Premier League season, according to multiple reports. The most prominent development involves a potential return of striker Darwin Nunez, who previously played for the club from 2022 to 2024 before a loan move to Benfica.
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According to Liverpool.com, the Reds have reinitiated discussions with Benfica regarding a possible free transfer for Nunez, who is currently under contract with the Portuguese side. The report states that Liverpool’s technical director, Maryam Nawaz, has been in contact with Benfica’s board to explore the feasibility of a deal, though no formal offer has been made. Nunez’s agent, Paulo Fonseca, has not publicly commented on the situation.
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The potential move comes amid speculation about Liverpool’s attacking options. The club has struggled to find consistent goal-scoring form since Nunez’s departure, with Mohamed Salah and Diogo Jota frequently carrying the load. A report from FourFourTwo suggests that Nunez’s physicality and aerial ability could complement the current squad, particularly in high-intensity matches. However, the outlet notes that Slot has not yet confirmed any interest in the Uruguayan forward.
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Separate reports highlight other transfer activity. Andoni Iraola, the Athletic Bilbao midfielder, is reportedly a target for Liverpool, with the club considering a free transfer as part of a broader strategy to reduce wage costs. This follows a statement from Iraola’s agent, who told Goal.com that “Andoni is open to new challenges, but his priority is to play regularly.” Athletic Bilbao has not commented on the speculation.
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In a separate development, Liverpool is reportedly considering a swap deal involving Yan Diomande, the 22-year-old midfielder currently on loan at Burnley from Nottingham Forest. The Times reports that Liverpool has offered Diomande in exchange for a financial contribution from Burnley, though the club has not confirmed the talks. Diomande, who joined Liverpool in 2023 for a reported £15 million, has made 18 appearances across all competitions this season.
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The club is also evaluating young talent, with defender Tiago Inacio shortlisted for a potential move. This Is Anfield reports that Inacio, 19, has been monitored by Liverpool’s scouting team after a standout season at Sporting CP. The Portuguese defender, who has previously trained with the Reds’ academy, is expected to be part of the club’s long-term planning. No official statement has been released by Sporting CP.
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What is the current status of these transfer rumors?
Liverpool’s transfer strategy remains in flux as the club balances short-term needs with long-term goals. While Nunez’s potential return has generated significant interest, sources indicate that no formal offers have been submitted. A spokesperson for the club stated, “We do not comment on transfer speculation, but we are always assessing options to strengthen the squad.”
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How might these moves impact Liverpool’s squad?
The potential signing of Nunez would address Liverpool’s need for a target man, though his fitness and form since leaving the club remain areas of concern. Iraola’s inclusion could provide midfield depth, while Diomande’s loan deal would allow the club to explore his potential without a major financial commitment. Inacio’s shortlist highlights Liverpool’s focus on developing young defenders.
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What are the challenges in these potential deals?
For Nunez, the primary challenge is securing a move from Benfica, which has not shown interest in selling the forward. Benfica’s president, Rui Costa, stated in a recent interview that “Darwin is a key player for us, and we have no plans to sell him this summer.” The club’s stance could complicate Liverpool’s efforts.
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For Iraola, the main obstacle is Athletic Bilbao’s reluctance to release a player of his stature. The Basque club has a policy of retaining core players, and Iraola is considered one of their most valuable assets. Meanwhile, the Diomande swap would require Burnley’s cooperation, which has not been confirmed.
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What comes next for Liverpool’s transfer activity?
The club is expected to remain active in the transfer market, with Slot reportedly prioritizing attacking reinforcements. A report from The Guardian suggests that Liverpool is also monitoring the market for a central defensive midfielder, with potential targets including Napoli’s Piotr Zieliński. However, no concrete offers have been made for those players.
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Why is this transfer activity significant for Liverpool?
The club’s transfer activity reflects its ambition to compete for major honors in the coming seasons. After a mixed performance in the 2025-26 season, Slot has emphasized the need for “immediate impact” in key positions. The potential signings of Nunez, Iraola, and Inacio align with this strategy, though the final decisions will depend on negotiations and player availability.
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What is the timeline for these transfers?
The summer transfer window opens on July 1, 2026, and closes on August 31. Liverpool’s management is expected to accelerate discussions in the coming weeks, with key meetings scheduled between the club’s scouts and representatives from Benfica, Athletic Bilbao, and Sporting CP.
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How do these moves compare to Liverpool’s previous transfer strategies?
Liverpool has historically focused on young, high-potential players, as seen in the signings of Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones. The potential acquisition of Inacio follows this trend, while the interest in Nunez represents a more high-profile, mid-career addition. The Iraola speculation also aligns with the club’s recent focus on cost-effective signings, such as the free