Newcastle United are reportedly weighing up a potential £50 million move to secure the signature of Benfica star Darwin Nunez this month.
According to Tutto Mercato Web, Newcastle United are ready to offer in excess of £50 million for Benfica striker Darwin Nunez. The Uruguayan has over three years left on his current deal at Benfica, and his release clause stands at an astounding €100 million.
Newcastle have long admired the South American forward’s talents, with the Magpies’ head of scouting Steven Nickson keeping a close eye on his progress. They have been quoted a sum of £50 million for the player, and it appears that they are willing to go above the asking price to secure their top target and set the deal in motion.
Currently battling relegation, Eddie Howe’s side desperately needs a revamp in multiple areas of the squad. However, their recent takeover means they will have a sizable war chest to operate in the winter transfer market and acquire quality players to boost their top-flight survival hopes.
Howe is keen to add more firepower to the Magpies’ attacking contingent, especially with reports suggesting that star striker Callum Wilson could be potentially out for months with injury. Howe likely wanted striking reinforcements prior to the former Bournemouth man’s injury, but Wilson’s lengthy absence will only enhance the need to reinforce Newcastle’s attack.
They have recently been linked with a loan move for Arsenal’s out-of-favour star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, but the 32-year-old is currently with the Gabon squad for the African Cup of Nations. Another name on their wish list is Benfica’s highly-rated forward, Darwin Nunez.
The Artigas-born sensation started his senior career at Uruguayan giants Penarol before securing himself a European move to Spanish second-tier side UD Almeria. After impressing in his debut campaign in the Spanish Segunda División, he earned a big-money move to Portuguese outfit SL Benfica in 2020.
Since then, the 22-year-old has been a revelation for the Águias, notching up 32 goals and 14 assists in 67 appearances in all competitions. The forward has enjoyed a stellar first half of the 2021-22 campaign with the Portuguese side, netting 13 times in 13 league appearances while also starring with a brace in a 3-0 Champions League win over Barcelona.
Regarded as one of the hottest properties in Europe, Nunez’s rapid rise has led to mounting interest from a host of elite clubs, including the likes of Atletico Madrid and Manchester City. However, cash-rich Newcastle, desperate for a statement signing, are also plotting a move for the in-demand striker.
Although the Toon must prioritise defenders and central midfielders, there is still room for a new striker, with Joelinton transitioning to a more fitting midfield role since Howe’s arrival and Dwight Gayle serving as a questionable cover for an injury-prone Wilson.
Nunez ticks a lot of boxes in terms of age, profile, potential and style of play. He is quick, agile and terrorises defences with a combination of size and speed. Most importantly, the Uruguayan is a good finisher in front of the goal. He would be a fine fix to the Magpies’ striking problems in the short and the long run.