Liverpool have hijacked Newcastle United's pursuit of Spain winger Victor Munoz by triggering the 22-year-old's £34.5m (€40m) release clause at Osasuna, with the player completing his medical on Wednesday in the United States. Liverpool sent staff to oversee the examination as Munoz, part of Spain's World Cup squad, prepares to sign a six-year contract at Anfield, with the fee to be paid in two instalments.
Munoz becomes the first signing since Andoni Iraola replaced Arne Slot as head coach earlier this month, a deal that accelerated after Iraola's appointment given his extensive knowledge of La Liga. The right-footed winger, who can play on both flanks but mainly operates from the left, scored seven goals and provided five assists in 36 appearances last season. La Liga expert Phil Minshull described him as "one of the pearls of Spanish football" with an excellent work-rate in attack and defence.
“Liverpool hijack Newcastle's move for Spain winger Victor Munoz, triggering his £34.5m release clause as his first signing under Andoni Iraola.”
Newcastle had been in advanced talks to sign Munoz after selling Anthony Gordon to Barcelona, but Liverpool swooped in, repeating a pattern seen last summer when Hugo Ekitike chose Liverpool over Newcastle and Alexander Isak forced a move from Newcastle to Liverpool. Interest also came from Manchester United and Bayer Leverkusen, but Munoz opted for Anfield.
A graduate of Barcelona's famous La Masia academy, Munoz later joined Real Madrid, where he made two brief substitute appearances before moving to Osasuna in July 2025 for €5m. Madrid retained a 50% sell-on clause and had matching rights, but despite considering taking him back, concerns over regular playing time under Jose Mourinho made it a non-starter for Munoz. Barcelona also showed interest before they signed Gordon in a deal worth more than £69m.
Liverpool are confident that Munoz's pace, ability to break down low blocks, and skill in the final third will strengthen their attack, especially with Mohamed Salah leaving. There is a belief that his overall output must improve, but the six-year deal is proof of the club's faith, and they are encouraged by his knack for getting into dangerous positions. The fact he spent time at Barcelona and Real Madrid is an indication of his potential. Work continues behind the scenes at Liverpool as they also pursue RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande.