Liverpool transfer update: Major bid rejected and talks for Stefanos Tzimas ‘commence’

Liverpool could see one attacker arriving and another departing as they prepare for a crucial winter transfer window, aiming to challenge for several trophies.

While many fans have urged the club to focus on renewing the contracts of Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool continues to explore options for bolstering their attack.

Darwin Nunez, the dynamic striker, remains the subject of frequent transfer speculation. The Uruguayan is currently out of favor under coach Arne Slot due to the competition in the attack, and a surprising bid from Al-Hilal, reportedly offering a large sum, has emerged.

At the same time, sporting director Richard Hughes plans to invest some of these funds into securing a young striker to secure the club’s future. Presently, Hughes is eyeing Stefanos Tzimas, a talented forward from the German second division, and Nurnberg.

Here’s Liverpool.com’s perspective on the transfer rumors as the Reds prepare to fine-tune their squad for a potential pursuit of four trophies.

Darwin Nunez (Liverpool)

Liverpool has rejected a bid around £70 million ($85 million) from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal for striker Darwin Nunez. The Reds had signed the 25-year-old Uruguayan from Benfica in the summer of 2022 for approximately £65 million ($78 million).

Liverpool values Nunez closer to £85 million, which suggests there is a strong possibility he could depart by the end of the window.

Nunez enjoyed one of his best goal-scoring periods under current Al-Hilal coach Jorge Jesus at Benfica. However, he has struggled for goals this season, netting only two in 755 Premier League minutes. Advanced statistics also highlight a significant decline, as his average non-penalty xG+xA per 90 minutes has dropped from 0.90 to just 0.41 in the 2024/25 season.

Liverpool.com says: While it may not be wise to reduce depth in the midst of a title challenge, a £70 million offer for Nunez at this stage is difficult to turn down. He remains a potential talent, rather than an established one, and the club could reinvest the funds into a player with more proven pedigree.

Stefanos Tzimas (Nurnberg)

19-year-old Greek striker Stefanos Tzimas has made a strong start to his professional career, scoring eight goals in 14 league matches (eight starts) for Nurnberg in the 2. Bundesliga.

On loan from his parent club PAOK, where he made history as the youngest goalscorer in Greek football, Tzimas is reportedly attracting interest from Liverpool, who are said to be prepared to offer up to £25 million ($31 million) for the promising teenager and are currently leading the race for his signature.

Tzimas recently fueled speculation about a potential move to England in an interview with Kicker, admitting, “The Premier League is also my dream league. But at the moment I am enjoying life in beautiful Nuremberg.”

Liverpool.com says: While Tzimas presents an intriguing prospect, Liverpool should focus on signing a more established talent. There’s no harm in scouting players from less prominent leagues, but this deal feels like a significant risk given the large price tag.