Osasuna winger Victor Munoz prefers to join Newcastle United after turning down an approach from Manchester United, according to AS (page 24).
The 22-year-old had a decent 2025/26 season with Osasuna, making 12 goal contributions.
His performances earned him a surprise spot in Spain’s 26-man squad for the ongoing World Cup.
Meanwhile, Munoz is widely expected to pursue a bigger challenge away from Osasuna, and AS claim that the Magpies are frontrunners to land him.
United made an enquiry for the Spaniard earlier this month, but Munoz has decided that he wants to join Newcastle, with playing time his prime priority.
Talks are underway with Osasuna, and the Magpies are looking to structure a long-term payment plan for his current release clause of around £35 million.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are involved in a three-way operation. They will reportedly retain a buy-back clause for the summer of 2027 as part of a deal.
Munoz has a lot of room for improvement
The young winger can operate on either wing, but seems more comfortable from the right.
Munoz had a productive season with seven goals and five assists, but his overall statistics were not overly impressive. He completed just 15 passes per La Liga game last term.
The Spaniard won five duels with three recoveries on average, but lost possession 14 times per outing.
He caught the eye with his dribbling from either flank, but created just two big chances.
Hence, Munoz has plenty of room for improvement, and he may not be an upgrade on Patrick Dorgu for the backup winger role behind Matheus Cunha on the left flank.
He does not appear a big loss for the Red Devils, who would not have accepted a buy-back clause.
If United are looking for a cost-effective left winger, they should consider a move for Club Brugge’s Christos Tzolis, who could be signed for around £35m as well.
Stats from Sofascore & Transfermarkt