Manchester United 'deny' meeting with Darwin Nunez agent and more transfer rumours

Manchester United have reportedly denied that Erik ten Hag has met with Darwin Nunez’s agent in an attempt to hijack Liverpool’s pursuit of the striker.

The Benfica superstar is being heavily linked with a move away from Portugal this summer, with Liverpool emerging as the favourites to land his signature. Jurgen Klopp’s side are likely to be in the market for a new forward, with Sadio Mane looking set to leave the club.

United though have also been touted as a possible destination, with reports this week suggesting the Reds were looking to trump their rivals’ attempts to bring Nunez to the Premier League. Various outlets suggested Ten Hag had held a meeting with Jorge Mendes as they looked to make a late move for the Uruguay international.

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According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano though, United have denied that a meeting has taken place, although they are still claimed to be in contact with Mendes. Benfica are also said to have received Liverpool’s opening offer following talks between the two clubs earlier this week.

Liverpool are claimed to be offering around £68million plus up to £17m in add-ons. United could still be in the race for Nunez though, with the Anfield club said to want to pay the fee in instalments, whereas Benfica want the cash up front.

Elsewhere, United reportedly look set to miss out on the signing of Joao Palhinha. The Sporting Lisbon midfielder has been linked with a move to Old Trafford, but reports in Portugal suggest he is instead set to head to Wolves.

The Reds are in the market for new options in midfield this summer, particularly in a deep-lying role having struggled in that position last