Darwin Nunez was favouring joining Liverpool amid the club’s interest, but is now tempted to listen to Manchester United after Erik ten Hag named the Benfica striker as one of his top targets.
That’s according to The Independent, who report the Red Devils are willing to go toe to toe with the Reds for the Uruguayan. The Old Trafford hierarchy are prepared to forge a war for the prolific ace, as Ten Hag listed the 22-year-old among those he desires most this summer.
Ten Hag is insistent on adding a striker, midfielder, two centre-backs and a utilitarian option during his first transfer window. Nunez leads his attacking shortlist, while the United boss is a big fan of his former Ajax defender Jurrien Timber as well as Villarreal enforcer Pau Torres.
Nunez has numerous suitors lining up at his door after a lethal term for Benfica domestically and in Europe. The 10-cap attacker struck home 34 goals in 41 games, plus four assists, in all competitions. Of his hits, six came in the Champions League, including two against the Reds.
Anfield could serve as the forward’s new home from next season with Jurgen Klopp also one of his admirers. Nunez had been favouring a transfer to Merseyside this summer, too, amid Liverpool’s interest in the Benfica star. But he is now willing to listen to Manchester United.
10 Most EXPENSIVE Footballers Ever | NEYMAR IN 2ND?!
Liverpool suffer Nunez blow as Benfica star ready to listen to Manchester United interest
Nunez and his camp intend to hear Ten Hag’s plans for him in the event of a transfer to Old Trafford. But Benfica’s demands could yet prove to be a stumbling block for any side with As Aguias demanding a fee of around £100m to cash in on one of Europe’s most prized players.
The Red Devils failing to secure Champions League football could aid Klopp’s pursuit, having reached the 2021/22 final. But Nunez’s willingness to hear Ten Hag’s interest and consider a move to Manchester United is a blow for Liverpool, having favoured joining the Reds before.