Newcastle United transfers: Victor Munoz has completed a £35million transfer to Liverpool despite Newcastle thinking they had a deal agreed.
New Liverpool signing Victor Munoz has picked up an injury while on international duty at the World Cup with Spain.
The news broke shortly after Liverpool confirmed the signing of the 22-year-old winger from Osasuna after triggering his £35million release clause. The deal is subject to ‘work permit and international clearance’ and comes after Newcastle were locked in talks for Munoz, believing they had a deal agreed.
But Liverpool ultimately hijacked the transfer and completed the deal from under Newcastle’s nose, leaving the club shocked and frustrated to see a major transfer fall through.
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Munoz had been lined up as a replacement for Anthony Gordon, who joined Barcelona for £70million at the start of the month. But all the time and effort Newcastle have spent working on the transfer, including flying a representative over to the United States to help complete a deal, has been for nothing.
Munoz completed his Liverpool medical and transfer while away with the Spain camp. But Spain’s medical team have since confirmed that Munoz has picked up an injury and it’s unclear whether he will be available for the upcoming World Cup matches.
Spain release ‘bad news’ on Victor Munoz
Munoz was an unused substitute in Spain’s 0-0 draw with Cape Verde on Monday. The 2010 World Cup winners face Saudi Arabia in their second group game on Sunday.
A press release from the Spanish FA read: “During the planned and individualised recovery process, an additional muscle injury has occurred, which will delay his return to competition. His availability for the upcoming matches will depend on the evolution of his symptoms.”
Fresh claims from Spanish outlet Cadena Ser have described Munoz’s setback as ‘bad news’ for Spain, raising doubts over whether he will feature again this tournament.
After the tournament, Munoz will have a short break before joining up with Liverpool in pre-season. Should he get back to full fitness, Munoz may get the opportunity to make his Premier League debut at St James’ Park when Newcastle host Liverpool on the opening weekend of the season.
The match may also mark Alexander Isak’s first game back at St James’ Park since his £130million departure from Newcastle last year.
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