Manchester United Handed Blow In Chase For Benfica Star And Target Surprise Defender

Manchester United have been handed a blow in their pursuit of Benfica's star man Darwin Núñez as Erik ten Hag looks to bolster his attack and defence ahead of the 2022/23 Premier League season.

According to the Telegraph, Spain currently seems the most likely destination for the Uruguayan, a player who Manchester United have been heavily linked with for several weeks. United need to add a new striker to their squad to expand Erik ten Hag’s options up front.

Núñez is a versatile player, who can also play on the left-hand side, although he has spent the majority of the season playing through the middle.

It has been widely stated that Benfica want up to £70 million for Núñez, who scored 26 league goals in just 28 games last season, as well as six in the Champions League.

However, the issue for United does not necessarily seem to be the price. The Uruguay forward looks to have his heart set on moving to a club that will be playing in the famed pinnacle competition of club football next season. Should this be the case, it could well be the end for United’s hopes of getting the transfer over the line.

Despite this report, there have been others which suggest otherwise, stating that United are well placed to complete the signing of Nunez. Journalist Sebas Giovanelli reported on his Twitter that the Red Devils are the "closest" at this moment in time to his signature.

Another player Manchester United are said to be interested in is RB Leipzig centre-back Joško Gvardiol. The Croatian international has had an impressive season for Leipzig, and, with United seemingly in the market for another centre-back, he could be someone the club move for.

Gvardiol has already made 10 appearances for his country, at the age of just 20. A left-footed player, he predominantly plays at centre-back, but can also fill in at left-back if he is required to.

He made 29 appearances in the Bundesliga for RB Leipzig last season, as well as six each in both the Champions League and the Europa League.

In the same report, the Telegraph explain that United will face competition for Gvardiol’s signature, should they decide to try and sign him. The Red Devils will be up against Premier League rivals Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, who are also both in the market for a new centre-back.