Beşiktaş Close In on Darwin Núñez Loan as Al Hilal Consider Temporary Solution

Turkish giants Beşiktaş are reportedly moving closer to signing Al Hilal striker Darwin Núñez on loan during the current summer transfer window.

According to Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Beşiktaş have reached a preliminary agreement with Al Hilal over a temporary move for the 27-year-old Uruguay international. The Saudi club is said to be open to a loan after failing to receive a permanent transfer offer that met its financial expectations.

Beşiktaş are now expected to begin formal negotiations with the player’s representatives to finalise personal terms. The Istanbul club wants to add another high-level forward to its attacking options alongside South Korean striker Oh Hyeon-gyu.

Al Hilal Open to Loan Departure

Núñez joined Al Hilal from Liverpool in the summer of 2025 in a transfer reportedly worth €53 million. However, the former Benfica striker has struggled to produce the performances expected of him since moving to Saudi Arabia.

Reports suggest that Núñez is interested in returning to European football, particularly after losing his regular place in Al Hilal’s starting line-up. His relationship with head coach Simone Inzaghi is also believed to have become increasingly strained.

The situation reportedly became more evident during the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Núñez started only one of three matches and remained on the bench for the other two after Karim Benzema moved ahead of him in the attacking hierarchy.

Salary Remains a Major Issue

One of the biggest obstacles to the deal is the striker’s salary. Núñez is reportedly earning around €22 million per year at Al Hilal, excluding performance-related bonuses.

Under the proposed arrangement, Beşiktaş would cover approximately 80% of his salary during the loan period. That would amount to around €17.5 million, making the deal a major financial commitment for the Turkish club.

Despite the cost, Beşiktaş appear determined to strengthen their attack with a recognised international forward. Signing Núñez would provide the team with greater physical presence, pace and experience in the final third.

For Al Hilal, a loan move could offer a temporary solution to the player’s uncertain role while also reducing part of the club’s wage burden. It may also give Núñez the regular playing time he needs to rebuild his form in Europe.

Negotiations with the player’s agent are expected to determine whether the transfer can be completed. No official confirmation has yet been issued by Beşiktaş, Al Hilal or Núñez.