Darwin Nunez releases statement after Aston Villa transfer 'contact'

Aston Villa have been linked with a shock move for Benfica attacker Darwin Nunez.

Nunez is one of the most in-form forwards on the continent with 21 goals in 23 league appearances in Portugal so far this season. He has also netted five times in the Champions League to help Benfica reach the quarter-final stage of this year's competition.

And 90min.com reports that Villa have been 'in contact' with the representatives of Nunez about a potential move. The Uruguayan has also been linked to a whole host of Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United Newcastle, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham.

The 22-year-old has a huge £100million release clause in his contract, but could reportedly leave the Estadio da Luz for £60million, and is contracted at the club until the summer of 2025. His impressive form for Benfica saw Champions League hopefuls West Ham lodge a £45million bid at the end of the January window, but that was rejected.

In an update about his future, Nunez released a statement on social media on Thursday night. He said on Twitter (translated): "I want to clarify that I will not renew my contract with my representative Edgardo Lasalvia.

"I also want to clarify that neither my family nor I have received any threats and we are fine." And according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Nunez will now reportedly sign with a new representative close to super agent Jorge Mendes.

With Nunez set to leave his agent and join forces with a new one, a transfer is more likely to come as a result this summer. Man Utd are said to be particularly interested in getting a deal over the line, while their pursuit of Harry Kane will be unlikely to come off if Tottenham qualify for Champions League football.