An Al-Hilal attacker is being linked with a cost-effective free move to FC Barcelona as the club continues to reshape its squad.
While sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick have spent months prioritizing high-profile European targets, intense financial constraints and fierce competition from continental rivals have severely complicated those primary operations.
With astronomical price tags ruling out several preferred candidates, the Catalan club has been forced to look for creative, market-friendly solutions to bolster its frontline.
The out-of-favour marksman at the center of this unexpected operation is former Liverpool striker Darwin Núñez.
The 26-year-old Uruguayan international has endured a tumultuous spell in the Saudi Pro League, where an unexpected squad registration crisis has left him entirely frozen out of competitive action.
According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Núñez’s name unexpectedly surfaced during advanced discussions between super-agent Jorge Mendes and Al Hilal officials regarding the permanent future of full-back João Cancelo.
The striker’s sudden availability stems from a unique technical loophole in the Gulf state.
Following the high-profile arrival of Karim Benzema at Al Hilal, the club exceeded its strict foreign-player registration limit, resulting in the Uruguayan losing his league registration.
With his camp actively working on a resolution—potentially involving a mutual contract termination—the forward is now eagerly waiting in the wings, hoping the Catalan giants formalize their internal admiration with a concrete contract proposal.
While Julian Alvarez remains the undisputed dream target for the Blaugrana, his steep €100 million valuation makes a deal highly improbable.
In stark contrast, Núñez represents an attractive, low-cost market opportunity that aligns perfectly with Barcelona’s tight budget.
Equipped with elite physical traits, explosive pace, and a proven track record in Europe, the South American forward could provide Flick with a lethal, dynamic alternative in the final third, turning a Saudi registration nightmare into a blockbuster Catalan rescue mission.
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