Blow for Klopp: Man Utd set to join race for ‘outstanding’ gem; had favoured Liverpool until now

Manchester United have now joined Liverpool in the race to sign Benfica striker Darwin Nunez, according to The Independent.

According to Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manha (via Liverpool.com), the Reds are pulling out all the stops to sign the 22-year-old from Benfica this summer.

It is claimed that the Primeira Liga outfit have identified Watford forward João Pedro as a potential replacement, with the expectation that a transfer will be feasible given the Hornets’ relegation to the Championship.

The Uruguay international impressed on the continent this season, following two impressive performances against Liverpool in the Champions League as the youngster scored twice and was denied a number of goals by marginal offsides at the Estadio da Luz.

According to a report by The Independent, Nunez has been namechecked by Erik ten Hag as a top target for Manchester United this summer, with England’s two most successful clubs seemingly set to go toe to toe for the youngster’s signature.

It is understood that the 22-year-old had favoured a move to Liverpool up until now, but the player’s representatives are prepared to listen to offers from the Red Devils.

Having established himself as one of Europe’s most prized assets this summer, Benfica are likely to command a fee of around £100m for Nunez.

With United joining the race, this will come as a blow to Jurgen Klopp’s side, as the Manchester club are more likely to accept more expensive demands compared to FSG-led Liverpool, having spent £94.5m on Paul Pogba and £80m on Harry Maguire.

However, the 22-year-old has had an “outstanding season”, having scored 34 goals in 41 appearances in all competitions. Therefore, Benfica’s valuation could be justified, with transfer expert