News Focus
- Liverpool activate £34.6m release clause to secure Osasuna winger Victor Munoz
- Reds pip Newcastle United in race for 22-year-old Spain international
- Player currently at World Cup with Spain; medical set for USA
- Former Barcelona and Real Madrid academy graduate joins Anfield rebuild
Liverpool have moved swiftly to secure the services of Victor Munoz, triggering the winger’s release clause to seal a £34.6m transfer from Osasuna. This move effectively ends Newcastle United’s hopes of landing the 22-year-old.
The Anfield club reached an agreement with the Spanish side whilst the player is away with Spain’s World Cup squad in America. Medical examinations are scheduled to take place in the United States before the deal is finalised.
This development mirrors previous transfer windows where Liverpool have outmanoeuvred the Magpies. Last summer, the Merseyside club secured Hugo Ekitike ahead of Newcastle, whilst also recruiting Alexander Isak, the Tyneside club’s star striker.
Munoz boasts an impressive development background, having spent his formative years at Barcelona’s renowned La Masia academy before switching to Real Madrid’s youth setup in 2023. Current Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso handed the wideman his senior debut for Los Blancos in May 2025, bringing him on as a substitute against Barcelona.
The youngster subsequently joined Osasuna on a five-year contract, contributing six goals and two assists across 34 league appearances last season. His arrival at Anfield forms part of a wider attacking rebuild, with manager Andoni Iraola seeking replacements for Mohamed Salah.
Liverpool remain interested in Ivory Coast’s Yan Diomande, though RB Leipzig value the versatile 19-year-old at over £86m. The club are also addressing defensive concerns, particularly at right-back following Conor Bradley’s knee injury and uncertainty surrounding Joe Gomez’s future.
Whilst centre-back is not deemed an immediate priority despite Ibrahima Konate’s departure, the lack of top-flight experience amongst new signing Jeremy Jacquet and returning youngster Giovanni Leoni may force a reconsideration. Kostas Tsimikas could solve left-back issues after his Roma loan, offering cover following Andy Robertson’s departure.
In midfield, Ryan Gravenberch’s progression under previous boss Arne Slot has altered recruitment plans, though reinforcements remain under consideration for the holding role.