Darwin Núñez’s future takes an unexpected turn as a new club reportedly enters the race to sign him.

Darwin Núñez could be set for a return to Europe as a fresh contender enters the race for his signature.

The striker moved to Saudi Arabia in the summer, joining Al Hilal in a deal worth up to £56.6 million after three mixed seasons at Liverpool following his £64 million transfer from Benfica.

Núñez struggled to make a consistent impact in the Premier League, scoring just 25 goals in 95 appearances. However, he has been far more effective in Saudi Arabia, netting five goals in 11 games despite dealing with recurring injury problems, including knee issues.

Even with his improved form, reports claim he is eyeing a move away from the Middle East when the January transfer window opens.

According to reports in Argentina, River Plate have been offered the chance to bring him in, while Turkish side Fenerbahce have also been approached.

Turkish outlet Sporx says Fenerbahce have identified Núñez as a potential attacking target and have already begun a financial assessment of what it would take to sign him. Matching his current £400,000-a-week Al Hilal wages is impossible for them, but a deal could be feasible if player sales generate funds or if Al Hilal agree to cover part of his salary in a loan arrangement.

A move to Istanbul appears plausible, as Núñez has reportedly already gathered information about the club — speaking with Al Hilal teammate Yusuf Akcicek, who previously played for Fenerbahce, and Uruguay legend Diego Lugano, a former fan favourite at the Turkish giants.

Fenerbahce boss Domenico Tedesco currently has Youssef En-Nesyri, Kerem Aktürkoğlu and Dorgeles Nené among his attacking options, but remains keen to bolster his frontline.

With interest growing, Núñez’s stint in Saudi Arabia may end far sooner than expected.