Darwin Nunez transfer greenlit as Man Utd talks emerge; three other Prem clubs chasing £67m deal

Darwin Nunez ‘will leave’ Benfica this summer, and discussions over a move to Man Utd have already been held internally, according to a trusted source.

The Uruguayan ace, 22, has thrust himself to the top of many clubs’ wishlists ahead of the summer. Nunez has plundered 31 goals in just 36 matches across all competitions this season. His five in nine in the Champions League show he can cut it at the highest level.

As such, Nunez has emerged on the radars of a whole host of England’s leading lights.

The Athletic reported on Monday that Chelsea and Manchester United were among those interested. The outlet claimed that pair – along with PSG – were ahead of Arsenal in the pecking order.

Benfica boss Nélson Veríssimo recently stated his side would seek to generate a fee similar to what they received for Joao Felix in 2019. The Portuguese earned Benfica a huge £113m when sold to Atletico Madrid.

However, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has now shed light on what the future holds for Nunez, and revealed a deal can be made for the more reasonable price of €80m (£67m).

Firstly, Romano categorically stated Darwin Nunez ‘will leave Benfica in the summer.’

The £67m fee was cited before the journalist added Nunez’s new agent will meet with ‘many top clubs’ to determine his next step.

Darwin Nunez to replace Cristiano Ronaldo?

Man Utd are claimed to have ‘already discussed his name internally’.

The Daily Mail reported Cristiano Ronaldo could be axed if Erik Ten Hag is appointed their new manager. Nunez could be the direct replacement, with the all-action forward far better suited to Ten Hag’s energetic playing style.

Romano concluded both Arsenal and West Ham ‘wanted him’ in January. Though at that point, Benfica weren’t open to selling.

Darwin Nunez race now has Chelsea as favourites

Chelsea join the race to sign Benfica striker Darwin Nunez this summer with PSG and Manchester United also involved

Chelsea are also in the mix per the Athletic, and their report hinted at what could give each chasing club an edge.

They claimed Benfica are determined to not let Nunez’s future drag on into a full-blown transfer saga.

The Portuguese outfit are targeting a quick sale to give them time to identify and sign a suitable replacement.

As such, which ever club acts first may steal a march in the race for Darwin Nunez.