Man Utd target Darwin Nunez makes summer transfer conditions clear in Newcastle ‘snub’

Manchester United’s pursuit of Benfica attacker Darwin Nunez has got a boost ahead of the summer transfer window. The highly-rated player has turned down Newcastle United’s interest and revealed a crucial condition that United and other suitors must meet if they want his signature.

Earlier this month, it was reported that Nunez would depart Benfica this summer for a cost of over £66 million. Arsenal and West Ham United both kept tabs on the 22-year-old in January, and United has also raised his name internally as part of their striker search.

Newcastle has emerged as a potential buyer in recent weeks, looking to make a big splash in their first summer window under Saudi ownership. According to the Telegraph, Nunez has turned down a move to the Magpies, and they have now switched their attention to Brentford’s Ivan Toney.

Newcastle has conceded defeat in the hunt to acquire Nunez because he has stated his desire to play in Europe next season. More specifically, the Uruguay international wishes to join a Champions League team this summer, which may be bad news for Manchester United.

If Ralf Rangnick fails to lead the club to fourth place and the Europa League is on the agenda for next season, Erik ten Hag’s ability to attract players in his first transfer window as manager may suffer. With Ten Hag kicking up his makeover at Old Trafford and several current first-team players going on free transfers, United is anticipated to be active this summer.

A club of United’s stature, on the other hand, may have a considerably stronger argument than Newcastle, having previously lured some of Europe’s biggest names with the Champions League on offer. Nunez could be enticed by the prospect of leading the line at one of the world’s most prestigious teams at the start of a new era.

Throughout his career, he has idolized Edinson Cavani, a hero on the Old Trafford terraces, and may be tempted to follow in his footsteps. Nunez would surely be one of the biggest transfers of the entire window if he were to join United at the conclusion of the season.