Liverpool have hijacked Newcastle's move for Spain international Victor Munoz after triggering the 22-year-old's £34.5m (€40m) release clause at Osasuna. The deal, which will see the fee paid in two instalments, was accelerated after Liverpool sent medical staff to the United States on Wednesday, where Munoz is currently preparing for the World Cup with Spain.
The right-footed winger, who can play on both flanks but primarily operates off the left, is expected to sign a six-year contract at Anfield. He becomes the first signing of the Andoni Iraola era after the former Bournemouth boss replaced Arne Slot as head coach earlier this month. Iraola's extensive knowledge of La Liga played a significant role in pushing the deal through, with the manager valuing Munoz's pace, his ability to break down low blocks, and his work in the final third.
“Liverpool have triggered Victor Munoz's £34.5m release clause, beating Newcastle to the Spain winger.”
Munoz's path to Anfield has been anything but straightforward. A graduate of Barcelona's La Masia academy, he later joined Real Madrid, making two brief substitute appearances before moving to Osasuna in July 2025 for €5m. Madrid retained a 50% sell-on clause and matching rights, but a return was ruled out by concerns over playing time under Jose Mourinho. Barcelona also showed interest before they signed Anthony Gordon from Newcastle in a deal worth more than £69m.
Newcastle, meanwhile, had been in advanced talks for Munoz after selling Gordon, but Liverpool swooped in – a pattern that echoes last summer's transfers of Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak, both of whom chose Liverpool over Newcastle. Interest also came from Manchester United and Bayer Leverkusen, but Munoz opted for Anfield.
His arrival addresses a clear need for attacking reinforcements following Mohamed Salah's departure. Last season, Munoz scored seven goals and provided five assists in 36 appearances, and while Liverpool believe his overall output must improve, they are confident that will come with time – a six-year deal is proof of that conviction. The club are also encouraged by his ability to get into dangerous positions, and his stints at Barcelona and Real Madrid are seen as indicators of his potential.
Liverpool are confident Munoz's arrival will not affect playing time for 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha, who made his England debut this month, and that the squad's versatility is enhanced by having Munoz alongside Cody Gakpo and Ngumoha. The understanding is that Munoz will not be the only attacking addition this summer, with further signings expected as Iraola shapes his squad.