Al-Hilal: Darwin Núñez closing in on Al-Diriyah move

The Uruguayan striker set to leave Al-Hilal on loan

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Al-Hilal: Darwin Núñez closing in on Al-Diriyah move

Darwin Núñez is now on the verge of a move to Al-Diriyah. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Al-Hilal striker is the subject of advanced talks for a season-long loan, with the Saudi club having given their initial green light after breaking off negotiations with Trabzonspor.

The situation has taken a dramatic turn. While Trabzonspor appeared to be in pole position to sign Núñez, Al-Diriyah entered the race with a loan offer and agreed to cover 75% of the player's salary. Al-Hilal has now given the go-ahead for the deal and has asked the Uruguayan to travel to Riyadh to finalize the last details of his future.

Contrary to some reports, Núñez had not reached any definitive agreement with Trabzonspor or Beşiktaş. No flight had been scheduled for Turkey, as the player was still weighing his options in both Saudi Arabia and Europe.

The situation therefore remains open until the loan is finalized. Al-Diriyah is now in pole position, but the final decision rests with the player.

🚨🇸🇦 Darwin Núñez never had any sort of agreement done with Besiktas or Trabzonspor.

No flight was scheduled, as Darwin was still assessing options in Saudi and Europe.

Núñez now close to joining Al Diriyah from Al Hilal: deal advancing to the final stages. 🟣🔜 pic.twitter.com/1iMU6WjgJU
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 18, 2026

A new chapter after Al-Hilal

This development comes as Darwin Núñez's future at Al-Hilal was already in doubt. The Saudi club is looking to reshape its attacking line and is keen to part ways with the Uruguayan striker, who arrived with high expectations after his spell at Liverpool.

A loan move would give Núñez the chance to reclaim a key role and more playing time. At Al-Diriyah, he could become one of the team's attacking focal points as the club looks to strengthen its squad.

The move could also trigger further changes at Al-Hilal. The Saudi club is actively pursuing Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, while the future of Karim Benzema remains uncertain.

The Núñez saga is nearing its conclusion. Al-Diriyah has taken the lead, but until the player gives his final approval, another twist in the tale cannot be ruled out.