Darwin Nunez of Benfica, according to Michael Owen, could be the ideal replacement for Edinson Cavani at Manchester United this summer.
With his efforts in Portugal this season, the Uruguayan international has caught the spotlight. Nunez has scored 21 goals in just 23 league games, prompting speculation that he could be on the verge of a lucrative summer transfer.
United are one of the clubs connected with a bid for the 22-year-old, although Arsenal are also said to be interested. Ralf Rangnick has previously stated that one of United’s summer goals should be to find a new striker.
Nunez added to his increasing notoriety by scoring in Benfica’s Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool, despite the Portuguese club losing the first leg 3-1. Owen believes Nunez might be the ideal successor for fellow countryman Cavani, who is poised to leave Old Trafford in the coming months.
“For starters, he’s in excellent form. “Today, if you’re going to lead the line on your own, you need a tremendous presence, which he has,” Owen told BT Sport. “He’s big, he’s good in the air, and he’s also swift. He has a surprisingly quick reaction time.
“I’m just 22 years old. When you consider how many good strikers Uruguay has had in the past, this young man appears to be the next in line. He’ll cause Liverpool problems, and he’s highly regarded throughout Europe. He has the potential to join a prominent European club in the near future, and he has a lot going for him.”
Peter Crouch, a former Liverpool and Tottenham striker, agreed, adding: “Manchester United, I believe, were watching him. He plays up front alongside [Luis] Suarez and Cavani for Uruguay, and I believe he has 27 goals in all competitions this season.
“He’ll undoubtedly pose a significant threat. He’s good in the air as well, and they (Benfica) were extremely good at set pieces against Ajax.”
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