Arsenal Told Liverpool Star Was ‘Tailor-Made’ Signing Arteta Should Have Pursued

Dietmar Hamann claims Arsenal missed a stunning chance to sign former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez before his Saudi Pro League move.

Arsenal have been told they missed a major transfer opportunity after former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann claimed Darwin Nunez should have been seriously explored before the striker left Anfield.

Speaking recently, Hamann described the Uruguayan forward as “tailor-made” for Mikel Arteta’s system, insisting the Gunners’ chance-creating style would have suited Nunez perfectly during Liverpool’s willingness to sell.

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Nunez joined Liverpool from Benfica in 2022 in a deal that could rise to £85 million, arriving with huge expectations following a prolific spell in Portugal. While his time at Anfield produced moments of brilliance, consistency remained elusive.

Across two seasons, the 25-year-old scored 33 goals in 96 appearances in all competitions. His debut campaign showed promise, but missed chances and erratic finishing often drew criticism. Under Arne Slot, his role diminished further, fuelling speculation over his long-term future.

That uncertainty eventually led to a surprise £46 million move to Al-Hilal last summer. Since arriving in Saudi Arabia, Nunez has rediscovered confidence, contributing goals and helping maintain Al-Hilal’s domestic dominance.

Hamann: Nunez was perfect for Arteta’s Arsenal

Hamann believes Arsenal should have acted decisively while Nunez was still available.

“Last season everybody was having a go at Darwin Nunez, but I thought he would have been tailor-made for Arsenal,” Hamann told CasinoBeats.
“They create so many chances, and that’s exactly the type of team he needs.”

Arsenal’s attacking structure under Arteta consistently produces high volumes of opportunities through Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice. Hamann argued that environment could have masked Nunez’s inefficiency while amplifying his strengths.

Standing at 6’2”, Nunez offers pace, physicality and constant movement in behind defences — traits Arsenal often look for when facing compact Premier League blocks.

Statistically, his Liverpool numbers still impressed beneath the surface. He ranked highly for shots per 90, progressive carries and penalty-box touches, suggesting he consistently found dangerous positions.

Hamann contrasted that with Arsenal’s current striker options, subtly questioning whether Viktor Gyokeres offers the same threat against elite opponents.

“Why not take a punt on Nunez?” Hamann added, hinting Arsenal could have tempted Liverpool with a bold bid.

Transfer strategy under scrutiny

Arsenal’s recent transfer windows have focused on squad balance rather than headline-grabbing risks. Signings such as Gyokeres, Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino strengthened depth, but debate remains over whether the Gunners possess a truly elite No.9.

With Arsenal still competing at the top of the Premier League, Hamann’s comments have reignited discussion about whether a more aggressive move for Nunez could have accelerated their title push.

Liverpool have since reshaped their attack, while Arsenal continue to back Arteta’s vision. The question now is whether Arsenal showed caution by passing on Darwin Nunez in transfer talks — or whether they missed a masterstroke.

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