Manchester United Make Their Interest In 'Next Cristiano Ronaldo' Formal

Manchester United have registered serious interest in Benfica forward Darwin Nunez, according to reports from the Daily Express.

The Uruguayan forward has bagged 34 goals in 41 matches for the Portuguese giants, helping them reach the Champions League Quarter-Final.

He scored in both ties against eventual finalists Liverpool, but all was in vain as they exited the competition 6-4 on aggregate.

He’s also been linked with the Reds and Newcastle United, but United are considering Atletico Madrid as their main rivals for his signature.

Nunez was quoted as costing over £120m back in April, but reports of the fee halving have emanated from the media since.

New manager Erik ten Hag is looking to bolster his attacking options, with Cristiano Ronaldo the only performing outlet last campaign. Marcus Rashford, Edinson Cavani and other big-name forwards were underwhelming despite hefty financial packages being thrown their way.

And Nunez, despite some inconsistencies in his game, could be the solution to the dilemma.

Tom Kundert, founder of Portugoal, said this about Nunez speaking to Eurosport.

“He’s a real handful. Big, busy, energetic forward, with a fantastic burst of acceleration, good technical ability, can play across the front line.

“He's usually pretty central but also works the wings well, has provided several assists by driving diagonally towards goal from wide positions then crossing or cutting the ball back.

“Decent in the air, and an ice-cool penalty taker. You could say he's a little bit of an Mbappe lite - although obviously a long way off that absolute elite level.”

Nunez’s stock has certainly risen over the last campaign, but many United fans are concerned that his £60m price tag could be a little steep.

But their record of signing elite players from Portugal - Messrs Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes and Nani - may give them hope that Nunez can provide some fantastic moments at Old Trafford.