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Bayern rebuffed as Liverpool block Ngumoha exit, while Nunez return fades with Barcelona circling

Liverpool shut down Bayern Munich's approach for 17-year-old winger Rio Ngumoha despite his camp signalling interest, while a romantic return for Darwin Nunez looks increasingly unlikely as Barcelona emerge as frontrunners for the Uruguayan.

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Bayern rebuffed as Liverpool block Ngumoha exit, while Nunez return fades with Barcelona circling
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Liverpool blocked Bayern Munich from opening talks over teenage winger Rio Ngumoha and appear set to lose any chance of re-signing Darwin Nunez, with Barcelona now leading the chase for the Uruguayan striker.

Liverpool stand firm over Ngumoha

Bayern Munich made an approach for 17-year-old Ngumoha last weekend, only to be firmly rebuffed by Liverpool. According to Bayern Insider, Ngumoha’s representatives had signalled that the winger would be open to a move to the Bundesliga giants and that “there would be no issue in sorting out contract details and the salary.” But the report states that Bayern “had a very clear signal when they knocked on the door at Liverpool that there would be no time or reason for talks,” and no negotiations took place.

Liverpool’s hard line is said to reflect the club’s belief in Ngumoha’s long-term potential. The youngster enjoyed an encouraging debut season at Anfield, scoring three goals across 31 appearances, and underlined his growing reputation by winning the player of the match award on his England debut against New Zealand in a World Cup warm-up last weekend.

Nunez return looking increasingly unlikely

Rumours of a sentimental comeback for Darwin Nunez have cooled significantly, with Barcelona now reported to be in the frame for the 26-year-old. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Catalan club are seeking a cost-effective replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who is leaving this summer, and Nunez fits the profile of a more budget-friendly option.

Nunez departed Anfield last August, joining Al Hilal for £46m. He made a bright start in the Saudi Pro League, but the arrival of Karim Benzema effectively ended his involvement — he was left out of the squad for the second half of the season. The forward originally joined Liverpool from Benfica in July 2022 for an initial £64m.

The change of manager at Anfield also complicates any potential return. Andoni Iraola has replaced Arne Slot this summer, meaning the club is entering a period of transition, and it remains unclear whether Nunez would fit the new head coach’s plans even if a deal were possible.

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