Arsenal’s hopes of signing Benfica striker Darwin Nunez may have been boosted after Newcastle United accepted defeat in their pursuit of him.
The Telegraph report that Newcastle made a move for Nunez in January. However, they were told he wouldn’t be sold until January.
Newcastle have maintained their interest in Nunez but are now being told that he wants to join a Champions League side.
With Newcastle nowhere near Champions League qualification, they are allegedly ready to back out of the race and give up hope.
This is a shame for Newcastle, who were allegedly willing to keep bidding more and more for Nunez.
Even with Benfica hiking their asking price up to £67million, Newcastle were allegedly prepared to keep going.
However, Newcastle seemingly realise that money isn’t the issue here. Instead, they will move on to other targets.
This is a boost to the other clubs who want to sign Nunez – such as Arsenal.
Arsenal now more likely than Newcastle in Nunez race
Record report that Arsenal have held talks with Nunez’s representatives in the hope of setting up a summer deal.
Arsenal need a new striker and can give Nunez a starring role. Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are both out of contract this summer and are set to leave.
Uruguayan star Nunez would then become Arsenal’s leading striker – but the Champions League qualification is still an issue.
Arsenal have lost four of their last five Premier League games and are now in real danger of missing out on the top four.
If that happens, Arsenal may well find that Nunez would rather go elsewhere.
This just underlines the importance of a top four finish; Arsenal’s summer transfer business could hinge on returning to Europe’s top table.
In the case of Nunez, Arsenal seem more likely than Newcastle – but it’s far from a sure thing.
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