Newcastle have been linked with an interest in Benfica striker Darwin Nunez since November. Earlier last month, a claim emerged that Newcastle had opened up the lines of communication for the Uruguay international.
The 22-year-old is on fire in Portugal this season with 18 goals in 22 appearances, despite missing time with two separate injuries. Newcastle seem to be still on the trail of the future star.
Mark Douglas, now with inews, recently reported that Newcastle were cited over £ 50million for the striker. While it sounds exorbitant, the player is Benfica’s record signing after joining Almeria for £ 21.8million less than two seasons ago.
Tutto Mercato have a brief report indicating that Newcastle are preparing an offer of this size to land the prolific striker, who has a release clause approaching the £ 100million mark. Atletico Madrid and Manchester City are also linked with an interest in Nunez.
There is no word on his willingness to join. Although he would fall into a similar category to best defensive target Sven Botman. Both are aspiring superstars who could have long and successful careers at Newcastle.
Newcastle are currently trying to get Atletico right-back Kieran Trippier to cross the finish line. There also appear to be discussions with Lille about Botman. As the reigning Ligue 1 champions are reluctant to lose their star defender, the Dutchman is said to be very excited about Newcastle’s proposal.
The same could be true for Nunez. The Premier League is an attraction for many players, especially young people. We’ll see if there are any legs in this latest claim, although the focus is currently on Trippier and a center-back.
A striker is certainly the order of the day with Newcastle very short of full-fledged attackers. Callum Wilson is also considering a sideline spell with a calf injury, with Dwight Gayle having been used sparingly in recent seasons.
Newcastle’s interest in Nunez has been brewing for some time, as ties with other forwards continue to creep in. One of them, Gabriel Barbosa from Flamengo, made headlines last week.
The Brazilian is said to be keen to join compatriot Joelinton in Tyneside according to a recent report in The Chronicle. The 25-year-old is reportedly available on loan with an option to buy £ 17million.
However, Sport Witness released a report with comments from Flamengo manager Bruno Spindel in which he categorically denies any approach for his prolific striker. Here’s what Spindel said when asked about reported interest in Barbosa:
“On the proposals of European clubs for Gabigol, I confirm here that there is nothing. No proposal or approach for the player arrived.
“Gabi is still in the planning for 2022 and will continue to help Flamengo a lot.”
