'One of the pearls of Spanish football' - Reds close to Munoz deal

Liverpool are set to sign winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna after triggering his 40m euro (£34.6m) release clause.

Munoz, 22, is part of Spain’s World Cup squad – and it is understood that Liverpool have staff in the United States to conduct his medical.

Newcastle were in talks to sign Munoz, after they sold Anthony Gordon to Barcelona, but Liverpool have won the race.

Munoz will become Liverpool’s first signing since Andoni Iraola replaced Arne Slot as head coach earlier this month.

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When Newcastle were linked with his signing, La Liga expert Phil Minshull told BBC Radio Newcastle: “He is an outstanding young talent. He’s one of the pearls of Spanish football.

“He’s a very strong, right-footed attacking winger. He can play both sides. He’s very robust. Very physical. He challenges defenders.

“One question mark over his technical abilities is his passing as he only got two assists in the whole of last season. But he does take on defenders, and he provides all sorts of challenges for them pulling players in his direction and opening up space for the other forwards.

“He can play either side of the park and that makes him a valuable asset depending on the resources of the rest of the team.

“Also, he’s always tracking back and he’s a strong tackler so he’s supporting the defenders as well. There’s no question marks over his work rate.

“I think a move to Newcastle would be the next step up in his development.”