Newcastle ‘to fight Arsenal in race to complete Darwin Nunez transfer as Benfica demand whopping £50m fee’
NEWCASTLE are interested in Benfica ace Darwin Nunez, according to reports.
The Magpies are set for another big transfer window, with their controversial Saudi owners set to oversee their first summer at St James' Park.
On their podcast Pod on the Tyne, reporter Chris Waugh revealed that the Toon are enamoured by the 22-year-old striker.
Waugh said: "He’s someone Newcastle, certainly Steve Nickson the head of recruitment, has liked for a long while, they’ve watched a lot.
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"There was almost surprise in January that they didn’t make a bid in the end because there has been a lot of interest.
"They’ve watched him extensively."
Newcastle scouts observing Nunez will have been incredibly impressed with what they've seen this term.
The Uruguayan has bagged 20 goals in 22 Portuguese top flight matches this season.
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He has added a further four in the Champions League - including a brace against Barcelona during the group stage.
In order to sign Nunez, Newcastle may have to beat off interest from Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta's side are said to be keen on the young forward, and could look to replace Alexandre Lacazette with the impressive ace.