Al-Nassr splashed the cash in the winter window by spending €77 million (£64.5m/$80m) to bring in Duran from Villa. However, the Saudi Pro League side were also keen on Nunez and made two bids for the Liverpool star, according to . A "financial" agreement was also close but Liverpool did not want to sell as they had no replacement lined up and wanted to respect Arne Slot's plans.
Advertisement
Getty
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Nunez'a future at Liverpool has come under scrutiny after a loss of form. The Uruguay international has netted just four times in the Premier League this season and has come in for some hefty criticism. Nunez did appear keen on a move to Al-Nassr too, as he was reportedly left "fuming" by Liverpool decision to turn down the Saudi side's offer.
DID YOU KNOW?
Al-Nassr ended up snapping up Duran and have seen the Colombian enjoy a dream Saudi Pro League debut as he scored twice in a 3-0 win over Al-Fayha. The Saudi club will be hoping he can continue to bang in the goals, particularly as he will earn an annual salary of £16.7m ($21m) at Al-Nassr.
Getty Images Sport
WHAT NEXT FOR LIVERPOOL
Nunez's last appearance came in Liverpool's shock 1-0 defeat to Plymouth in the FA Cup which won't have helped his cause. The Reds are back in Premier League action on Wednesday against rivals Everton in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park, but Nunez is likely to have to settle for a place on the bench.