Aston Villa are set to face stiff competition from Newcastle United in the race to sign Osasuna winger Victor Munoz, with a £34.5 million release clause now coming to light.
Munoz Emerges as Top Target
The 22-year-old has quickly become one of Europe's most sought-after wide players after scoring on his international debut for Spain in March. He is now pushing for a spot in the 26-man World Cup squad. Newcastle are looking to bolster their left-wing options in anticipation of Anthony Gordon's likely departure, with Bayern Munich having held talks with the player, who is said to be eager for a new challenge after three-and-a-half years at St James' Park.
Newcastle's Interest Confirmed
It is understood that Newcastle have made inquiries about Munoz through his new representatives, Niagara Sports Company, ahead of the summer transfer window. These initial contacts are believed to have taken place alongside discussions about 17-year-old Kustosija Zagreb talent Rafael Belinho, who is also being tracked by Barcelona, Arsenal, and Manchester United.
Munoz, who can play across the frontline, has recorded seven goals and five assists in 36 appearances across all competitions this season. He joined Osasuna from Real Madrid last summer for an initial £4.3 million, but that fee only covered 50 percent of his rights. As a result, Madrid are entitled to half of any future transfer fee Osasuna receives for the attacker, whose release clause is set at £34.5 million (€40 million). Los Blancos also reportedly hold an undisclosed buy-back clause valid for three years.
Injury Update
Munoz is expected to miss Osasuna's final La Liga match of the season against Getafe this weekend due to a minor injury, but this is not anticipated to affect his potential involvement in the World Cup.
Competition Intensifies
Newcastle's arch-rivals Sunderland showed strong interest in January and made a proposal worth over £20 million, but no deal was struck. Now, the race is heating up with Aston Villa also in the mix. Real Madrid have held talks about re-signing the player, while Barcelona, Napoli, and AC Milan are also keen.
