Liverpool star Darwin Nunez was reportedly in very advanced talks with Al-Nassr last month as the striker closed in on a transfer to the Saudi Pro League. But the move was ultimately scuppered after the Reds pulled the plug on the deal.

Nunez has been forced to play a supporting role in the Liverpool attack since Arne Slot took the helm at Anfield last summer.

The Uruguay international has started just seven Premier League matches this season and has found the back of the net just six times in all competitions.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Al-Nassr presented two big proposals to Liverpool as they searched for a No. 9 to partner blockbuster star Cristiano Ronaldo up front.

The second offer was in excess of £62million plus add-ons, with the fee close to Liverpool’s valuation of Nunez.

But the Reds decided to reject the approach as they didn’t have time to find a proper replacement before the winter transfer window slammed shut earlier this month.

Nunez spoke to Al-Nassr in three separate rounds of talks, with the terms of the contract and the salary being discussed. And the Saudi Arabian team were confident of getting a green light from the player.

But Liverpool eventually decided it would be more beneficial to keep him in England as they go in search of silverware across a host of competitions this season. And Al-Nassr snapped up Jhon Duran from Aston Villa instead.

Nunez has struggled to get his name on the scoresheet this season after firing in 18 goals for the Reds last season.

But the 25-year-old popped up with a quickfire brace in the closing stages of Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Brentford last month as the Reds ran out 2-0 winners.

And after that match, the forward told Sky Sports: “I think you have to stay mentally strong – never give up. Yes, there are moments that are very difficult for us players. For me, it’s right now.

“But I never throw the towel in, I always carry on working. In training, if I need to stay and practise more, I stay to improve.”

And he added: “The truth is that I’m going through a rough patch and, like I said before, I stay focused on my job and giving everything for Liverpool.

“I think it’s important to keep my head up and I always say I’ve got to work because I need to improve. I stay strong with this mentality and with the support of my family and the fans that are incredible.”