Manchester United have been dealt with a huge blow in their pursuit of Darwin Nunez. Liverpool have reportedly leapfrogged United to sign the Benfica striker. As a result, the Red Devils have withdrawn their interest in Nunez. The striker attracted a host of top European clubs after their breakthrough season with Benfica. However, Liverpool have apparently pipped every other interested party to become the favorites to land Darwin Nunez this summer. Further on, United are now set to prioritize other signings after missing out on the striker.
United are on their way to overhaul the squad this summer under new boss Erik ten Hag. The club recently concluded a mass clear-out, releasing the likes of Edinson Cavani, Paul Pogba, Juan Mata, Jesse Lingard, and Nemanja Matic. United now wants to replace the departed players while injecting young blood into the team. Darwin Nunez has racked up exceptional numbers this season thus prompting United to make him a top target. Ten Hag wants a new striker, which interim manager Ralf Rangnick was denied. The Dutchman planned to partner-up Cristiano Ronaldo with Nunez, which now seems to be highly unlikely.
United give up Darwin Nunez to Liverpool
Manchester United are ready to spend big in the summer transfer window. As a result, their wish list consisted of Darwin Nunez. The Red Devils were prepared to meet Benfica’s demands for their talented player. The Portuguese side wants a massive £80 million to part their ways with Darwin Nunez. United didn’t consider the price tag a problem but felt the player had set his sights on a move to Liverpool.
As is turns out, Darwin Nunez does want to play for Liverpool than Man United. The Uruguayan desires to play under Jurgen Klopp and has conveyed the same to his representatives. Therefore, negotiations are already underway between the Merseyside club and Nunez’s agents. Multiple reports further claim that the Reds have even agreed on a deal for the 22-year-old with Benfica. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Liverpool have offered £68 million guaranteed, plus £17 million in add-ons for Nunez.
Goal journalist James Robson further reports that United does not wish to engage in a “bidding war” with Liverpool for Darwin Nunez. United have accepted their defeat and are now focusing on other deals. Meanwhile, not only Klopp but Liverpool’s project has also lured Nunez. The youngster has rose to prominence with 34 goals in 41 games for Benfica this season. Those also include 6 in the Champions League with 2 against Liverpool in the quarter-finals.
Nunez wants to continue to play in the Champions League, which is another reason he chose Liverpool. United will be competing in the Europa League next season after finishing 6th last season. This has had major impacts on their transfers with Darwin Nunez latest to reject United. Nonetheless, United are still in talks to land other targets in Frenkie de Jong and Ruben Neves.
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