Benfica set huge asking price on Darwin Nunez amid Manchester United and Man City transfer links

Benfica boss Nelson Verissimo has named his asking price for Darwin Nunez amid his links to Manchester United and Manchester City this summer.

Nunez caught the eye once again on Saturday and underlined his growing reputation as one of European football’s hottest prospects. The 22-year-old fired in a hat-trick as Benfica beat Belenenses 3-1, taking his tally for the season up to 31.

The Uruguay international’s form has seen his name being linked to a host of big names ahead of the summer transfer window. United are among those to have been touted as a possible destination, with Nunez certainly fitting the bill for the Reds.

Interim boss Ralf Rangnick has already identified a striker as one of United’s priorities for the summer, especially with Edinson Cavani set to leave, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s future uncertain. Nunez would be more-than welcome addition, based on his performances so far this season.

He will come at a hefty price though should United or City choose to pursue a move. Speaking after the win over Belenenses, Verissimo admitted it is inevitable that Nunez will leave Benfica at some stage.

The Lisbon club though will hope they can repeat their trick after getting a huge fee for Joao Felix back in 2019. The Portugal international ended up leaving for Atletico Madrid for close to £113million.

"What do you think? Darwin is an excellent player, he has shown all his quality. He has helped the team a lot, it is true that the team has also helped him a lot,” Verissimo explained.

“He is a young player, with a lot of potential, it is natural that given what has been his growth throughout this season and also a lot as a result of the performance he has had in the Champions League games, it is natural that he arouses the