Manchester United are one of the clubs interested in signing Benfica striker Darwin Nunez during this summer’s transfer window, Calciomercato’s Matteo Moretto claims.
The Red Devils have experienced a tough Premier League campaign, and they are presently fifth in the standings, four points behind Arsenal, who have a game in hand.
They face the potential prospect of missing out on Champions League football next term, but are still expected to spend in the transfer market during the off-season.
Interim boss and future advisor Ralf Rangnick has already confirmed plans for a younger striker with Edinson Cavani expected to leave when his contract expires in June.
It is now reported that the Red Devils have an interest in Nunez, but there has been no official approach. Benfica are looking for a fee of around €75 million (£63m) for the Uruguayan.
Our view:
Nunez was linked with a Premier League move during his time at Almeria. Brighton & Hove Albion were in the mix before Benfica prised him away in the summer of 2020.
The 22-year-old netted 14 goals from 44 appearances in his debut campaign, but has taken his game to the next level this season following a knee surgery last summer.
He has bagged 26 goals from just 33 outings. This has included four goals against the likes of Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Ajax in the Champions League campaign.
This has only improved his reputation. He could be an ideal signing for the Red Devils this summer as they look to plan for the long-term under a new permanent manager.
Cristiano Ronaldo has impressed in his homecoming season with 18 goals to his name, but he is no longer in his prime. The Portuguese has netted just four times in 2022.
He has decided to continue with the club next season, The next manager may have the chance to play with two up front with the new signing partnering Ronaldo.
Nunez’s fine scoring exploits for Benfica has also caught the eye of Arsenal and Atletico Madrid. The former are also desperately on the hunt for a new centre-forward.
Benfica’s price tag is on the higher side, but they may deem the valuation justifiable for a striker, who is just entering his prime and has three years left on his contract.
It remains to be seen whether United are willing to make a huge outlay on Nunez. If they are interested, they can’t afford to haggle over the fee amid fierce competition.
Erling Braut Haaland, who has been a long-term target, would be available for a similar sum through his release clause, but the Dortmund striker looks set to join elsewhere.
It has been reported that United have ‘given up‘ on the player’s pursuit. Manchester City and Real Madrid are regarded as the front-runners to land the Norwegian star.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
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