Manchester United are looking for a striker to be the backup for and then eventually replace Cristiano Ronaldo upfront for Erik ten Hag's team. This has led them to Benfica's door where they are reportedly interested in a move for Uruguayan striker Darwin Nunez.
Nunez has 34 goals in 41 games this season for Benfica including six goals in the Champions League. His performance against Liverpool gained plaudits from fans and players alike, with Virgil van Dijk naming him in his top five hardest opponents he's ever faced.
Most United fans have been excited about being linked with such a promising talent and, of course, being Uruguayan the comparisons to Edinson Cavani have already been made (even if they are completely different players). However, some have had their doubts about whether he is suited to Ten Hag's style of football.
READ MORE: Spain boss Luis Enrique hints at reason behind David de Gea snub despite Manchester United form
Nunez is a striker who thrives off receiving the ball in space and running in behind. He has often been played either as a striker in a two or on the left-wing as well due to his tendency to run down the channels on the left-hand side of the pitch.
There are also question marks about whether he would be able to replicate his form from Portugal in the Premier League. However, those fans may have just received their seal of approval even if it doubles up as the kiss of death for any potential deal.
The Times have reported that Liverpool are interested in bringing Nunez to Anfield. They are expected to sell Sadio Mane this summer with Bayern Munich heavily linked with a move, and the 22-year-old could be seen as his replacement.
Liverpool's talent identification and acquisition over the past few seasons has been second to none, and any who doubted whether they could keep it up were silenced when they signed Luis Diaz in January. Many thought the Colombian winger would take time to adapt to the league, but he took to it like a duck to water.
Their interest in Nunez likely means that they believe he would have a similar impact but given that Liverpool has Champions League football and a better chance of silverware it is unlikely that he would pick United over Anfield. However, it at least shows that under Ten Hag, the club are starting to look in the right places.
With Ronaldo getting older and Cavani gone, United need to sign a backup for the Portuguese striker if they are going to try and compete in both the Premier League and Europa League next season. But it may be the case that they have to look at a player other than Nunez.
Sign up to our United newsletter so you never miss an update from Old Trafford this season.
