Liverpool hijack Newcastle's move for Osasuna winger Victor Munoz in £34m deal

Liverpool have moved decisively to sign Osasuna winger Victor Munoz, agreeing to trigger his €40 million (£34.6 million) release clause and hijacking a deal that had been edging towards Newcastle United. The 22-year-old is now expected to sign a six-year contract at Anfield, making him the first signing of Andoni Iraola’s tenure as head coach.

Newcastle had been widely linked with Munoz, but the Magpies were unable to push a deal through quickly enough. Liverpool identified the opportunity and moved swiftly, with the player now anticipated to undergo his medical while still in the United States with the Spain squad at the World Cup.

Munoz is currently an unused squad member at the tournament, having sat out Spain’s goalless opening group-stage draw against Cape Verde on Monday. Spain’s next fixture is on Sunday in Atlanta against Saudi Arabia, before they face Uruguay later in the month. Munoz has earned two senior caps for his country and will be hoping to add to that tally during the competition.

The former Barcelona and Real Madrid academy product joined Osasuna only last summer from Real Madrid. He predominantly operates as a left winger but has shown the versatility to perform on the right flank during his time in Pamplona.

Iraola was confirmed as Liverpool’s head coach earlier this month following Arne Slot’s departure, and is set to oversee pre-season training next month, including a tour of the United States. Speaking about his approach to management, Iraola outlined his philosophy for the squad.

“For me, we are a lot of things as a manager but especially we are here to help the players,” Iraola said. “We have to provide a collective platform so everyone can do their job properly and we can find the best roles for every player. I always say: if everyone is happy, there is a good mood around the team, this gives you points. I have no doubt about this.”