Supporters may be understandably itching to see Darwin Nunez in a Liverpool red shirt, but when the time finally arrives, it could be against an old enemy who reportedly wanted to sign him themselves.
That's because the Reds will kick off their pre-season friendly schedule with a match against Manchester United on July 12 in Bangkok. On Sunday it was revealed that Liverpool are close to agreeing a deal to bring the Uruguayan to Anfield in package that, with add-ons, could be worth a much as 100m Euros.
Sporting director Julian Ward has moved swiftly to seal the deal while the club waits for an improved offer from Bayern Munich for Sadio Mane. North-west rivals United were understood to be interested in bringing the Benfica star to Old Trafford but Nunez's desire to play for the Reds and continue his progress in the Champions League has appeared to have tipped the balance.
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Liverpool will play two pre-season matches in the Far East next month, starting with the game against the Red Devils on Tuesday, July 12 at the Rajmangala Stadium, before travelling to Singapore three days later, where they will play Crystal Palace on Friday, July 15 in the national stadium.
No other pre-season matches have yet been confirmed, but more serious business will get underway on Saturday, July 30 when Nunez will be expected to be in the squad for the Community Shield fixture against Premier League champions Manchester City. Due to a Wembley fixture clash, the match is being played at Leicester's King Power Stadium and, with a capacity of just 32,312, less fans than usual will have the opportunity to see their new star striker in the flesh.
The 22-year-old has the opportunity to win the affection of supporters in quick-time however, by inflicting an early wound on old foes Manchester United. Not a bad way to commence a career at Anfield.
