Napoli’s pursuit of Darwin Núñez has officially come to an end. The Italian club has verbally agreed a deal with Udinese for Italian striker Lorenzo Lucca, closing the door on their interest in the Liverpool forward.

The deal for Lucca is reported to be worth €35 million, structured as a loan with an obligation to buy. Once that agreement was reached, Napoli immediately informed Liverpool that their negotiations for Núñez were over. The decision puts an end to weeks of speculation linking the Uruguayan striker with a move to Serie A.

Núñez, 25, remains one of the key names expected to leave Liverpool this summer. Talks between the player’s camp and the club reportedly began as early as January or February, with both sides agreeing that a summer departure was likely. Despite the interest from Napoli, the move ultimately collapsed as the Italian side turned their attention to Lucca.

However, the Núñez saga is far from over. Saudi Arabian clubs are now expected to re-enter the race, having previously shown strong interest in the Liverpool striker. According to reports, Núñez had initially prioritized a move to Napoli over the lucrative offers from the Middle East, but with the Italian route now closed, the Saudis could make a renewed push.

More European clubs may also enter the race in the coming weeks as Núñez’s situation continues to develop. While Liverpool remains focused on strengthening their squad for the new season, the future of their big-money signing from Benfica in 2022 is a key subplot of their transfer window.

Darwin Núñez’s Liverpool journey has been a mixed one. Despite flashes of brilliance and a respectable goal tally, the striker has struggled for consistency in the Premier League. With the club looking to refresh its attacking options under new management, a transfer could be the best outcome for both sides.

Meanwhile, Lorenzo Lucca’s move to Napoli signals a new chapter for the Italian striker. Having impressed at Udinese, Lucca will now have the chance to lead the line for the reigning Serie A champions as they aim to bounce back from a disappointing campaign.

As one door closes for Núñez, another opens for Lucca — and the summer transfer window is just heating up.