Erik ten Hag is in Love With Darwin Nunez and Personally Requests Man Utd Transfer Deal.
Erik ten Hag has decided to bring Benfica centre-forward Darwin Nunez to Old Trafford this summer. The new Manchester United boss loves the Uruguay international and believes that the youngster will quickly adapt to the Premier League.
Darwin Nunez of SL Benfica reacts during the Portuguese League football match between Sporting CP and SL BenficaNunez impressed the Dutchman after scoring a winner against Ajax in the Champions League Round of 16.
According to Spanish newspaper AS, the 22-year-old is in huge demand this summer, and the Premier League clubs interested in sacking him will meet Nunez's agent Jorge Mendes. Benfica might charge around €130million for Nunez, overshadowing the club-record sale of Joao Felix to Atletico Madrid in 2019 for €127 million. Erik ten Hag has reportedly asked the Red Devils to initiate the signing of the striker.
Why Nunez is the Best Option for Manchester United
Nunez walked into Benfica from Spanish club Almeria in 2020. His debut season with the Portuguese side barely impressed any spectators as he scored 14 goals in 44 appearances in all competitions. However, the Uruguayan has exceeded expectations this season by netting 33 goals in 39 appearances for Nelson Verissimo's side. His deliveries pushed the club to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. As a consequence, Europe's top contenders are targetting him. Although Benfica couldn't enter the semi-finals, the striker scored in both legs.
The club see Edinson Cavani depart after his contract expires this season. The Red Devils might be looking for a long-term replacement for the former Paris Saint-German star. Arsenal is also interested in signing a world-class striker to replace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who exited the club in January 2022. Meanwhile, Liverpool could also pursue Nunez if Mohammed Salah departs after his contract expires in 2023. He has shown zero interest in renewing it or extending his stay.
At the same time, Manchester City could bring Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland, who might join the club. Pep Guardiola might focus on Nunez if they fail to sack the Norwegian international. Manchester United are determined to sign the 22-year-old, but he might refuse their offer considering Old Trafford's disappointing 2021-22 campaign. They were fan favourites to win the Premier League title at the start of the season but are ranked sixth in the league table. They might even not qualify for next season's Champions League.
United to Undergo Major Changes After ten Hag's Arrival
The club have announced Erik ten Hag as their new manager and will undergo a significant squad overhaul under the guidance of the 52-year-old this summer. However, the club has been plagued with uncertainty and lack of direction, which could sabotage their chances of signing Nunez. He could be interested in a team which has better chances of featuring in the Champions League.