Newcastle to Sign Spain Starlet Víctor Muñoz

Newcastle to Sign Spain Starlet Víctor Muñoz
​Newcastle United’s summer transfer window has been dealt a stinging blow after Premier League rivals Liverpool hijacked their move for highly-rated Osasuna winger Víctor Muñoz. The 22-year-old forward, currently away with the Spain national team at the 2026 World Cup, seemed destined for a move to St. James’ Park. Eddie Howe had identified the versatile attacker as his primary target to replace Anthony Gordon on the left flank. However, Newcastle’s hesitation over meeting the player’s price tag allowed Liverpool to swiftly step in, triggering his €40 million (£34.5 million) release clause to secure the signature for new head coach Andoni Iraola.
​The news has left the Tyneside faithful reeling, particularly as it marks the second consecutive summer where Liverpool have beat Newcastle to a high-profile target. Having previously missed out on Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak to the Merseyside club, Newcastle’s recruitment hierarchy is now forced to pivot to alternative targets late in the window.
​Newcastle Force to Pivot to Arsenal and Liverpool Alternatives
​Having missed out on Muñoz, Newcastle are wasting no time launching a “revenge mission” in the market. Reports indicate that the Magpies have actively opened talks regarding several marquee alternatives to bolster their frontline. High on Eddie Howe’s shortlist is Liverpool’s own Cody Gakpo, whose future at Anfield has grown uncertain following the departure of Arne Slot.
​Additionally, Newcastle have held preliminary inquiries with Arsenal over the availability of Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. While Trossard is rumored to be in advanced talks with Turkish side Besiktas, Martinelli represents an ambitious but viable target. Newcastle’s hierarchy is determined to back Howe with a statement signing to ensure their attacking prowess isn’t compromised ahead of the upcoming campaign.