Iraola's La Liga expertise seals Liverpool's £34.5m Victor Munoz deal ahead of Newcastle

Liverpool have agreed a £34.5 million deal to sign Victor Munoz from Osasuna, with the 22-year-old Spanish winger set to become new head coach Andoni Iraola’s first signing at Anfield after the club triggered his release clause. Munoz underwent a medical on Wednesday while on international duty with Spain at the World Cup, and is expected to sign a six-year contract.

According to The Daily Mail, Liverpool had monitored Munoz for some time but significantly accelerated their pursuit following Iraola’s appointment as manager. The move was given the green light in part because of Iraola’s extensive knowledge of the player and the La Liga market — experience accumulated during his long managerial career in Spain.

The deal represents a significant coup for Liverpool, who beat out a formidable list of suitors. Bayer Leverkusen, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Newcastle United were all reported to be in contention for Munoz’s signature before Liverpool moved decisively to meet his release clause.

Munoz may not be the only forward addition Liverpool make this summer. The club are also understood to retain an interest in RB Leipzig teenager Yan Diomande, though Leipzig have placed a valuation of around €100 million (£86.5m) on the 19-year-old and remain reluctant to sanction his departure.

On the international stage, Munoz started from the bench during Spain’s goalless draw with Cape Verde in their World Cup Group H opener in Atlanta on Monday. He will be hoping to feature in the remaining group fixtures against Saudi Arabia and Uruguay, with Liverpool expected to monitor his performances closely as the tournament progresses.

Munoz has earned two senior caps for Spain to date, and his inclusion in the World Cup squad underlines the level of regard in which he is held despite his relatively limited international experience.