"I'm sure" - £67.9m goal-machine is "firmly on the radar" of Newcastle, journalist says

Benfica hitman Darwin Nunez is firmly on Newcastle United‘s radar, according to transfer insider Pete O’Rourke.

The 22-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away from Nelson Verissimo’s side, and it looks like St James’ Park could be a possible destination for him.

Portuguese outlet Record reported last month that Benfica are willing to sell their striker but only for a hefty €80m (£67.9m) fee.

It comes after West Ham tried to sign Nunez in January, with Sky Italia (via Sky Sports) claiming that the Hammers had a £37.4m bid turned down.

Interest in Nunez comes as no surprise, as the Uruguayan is having a fantastic season at the Estadio da Luz.

He has scored over 20 goals in all competitions this term, with four of those coming in Benfica’s Champions League campaign.

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O’Rourke has told GIVEMESPORT that he is confident that Nunez is a player Newcastle are eyeing ahead of the summer transfer window.

Speaking to GMS, the football journalist said: “The likes of a Darwin Nunez I’m sure is firmly on the radar as he is for a host of English clubs having come close to joining West Ham in the January transfer window.”

Having made an approach for him in January, it would not be a surprise to see West Ham go back in for the former Almeria man when the transfer window reopens.

They desperately need a new No.9 after failing to replace Sebastien Haller, whose Ajax side were recently knocked out of the Champions League by Nunez’s Benfica.

As well as West Ham and Newcastle, Manchester United could also make a move for the Uruguay international. According to The Telegraph, however, a transfer to Old Trafford could hinge on the Red Devils qualifying for Europe’s