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Liverpool have officially confirmed the £34 million transfer of Spain international forward Victor Munoz from Osasuna, securing his services ahead of Premier League rivals Newcastle United. The Merseyside club made a decisive move in the transfer market by triggering the £34 million ($45m) release clause in the winger’s contract.

Liverpool win race for Spanish winger

The Reds have announced the signing of Munoz after formally activating his release clause at Osasuna. Liverpool’s swift action ensured that no other club could intervene, with Newcastle United ultimately losing out in the chase for the 22-year-old’s signature.

Currently representing Spain at the World Cup, Munoz completed his medical at the national team’s base in Tennessee, USA, before signing a long-term deal with Liverpool. The agreement remains subject to a successful work permit and international clearance, but Liverpool have already secured the player’s commitment, underscoring their aggressive recruitment strategy this summer.

Disappointment for Newcastle

For Newcastle United, the transfer marks a significant setback. The club had identified Munoz as a priority target to strengthen their attacking options following the departure of Anthony Gordon to Barcelona earlier in the transfer window. Despite being deep into discussions with Osasuna, the Magpies were unable to compete once Liverpool decided to pay the full release clause outright, leaving no scope for negotiation.

By meeting Osasuna’s valuation in full, Liverpool were able to accelerate the process and move directly to personal terms with the player. This tactical approach allowed them to bypass lengthy club-to-club talks, sealing the deal before Newcastle could respond. The Tyneside side will now pivot to alternative targets as they look to reinvest their funds elsewhere during the window.

First signing under Andoni Iraola

Munoz becomes the first signing of the Andoni Iraola era at Liverpool and will join up with his new teammates after the World Cup concludes. Manager Iraola is reportedly an admirer of the young attacker, valuing his tactical adaptability and relentless work rate—qualities that complement the high-energy style the Spaniard plans to implement at Anfield.

The 22-year-old already boasts two senior caps for Spain, scoring on his debut against Serbia in March. His breakthrough campaign at Osasuna, where he netted seven goals and provided five assists in 34 appearances, convinced Liverpool’s hierarchy that he was ready for the Premier League challenge. Having previously developed in the youth academies of Barcelona and Real Madrid, Munoz arrives with top-level technical pedigree and experience.

Preparing for Saudi Arabia clash

Munoz is technically Liverpool’s second incoming player finalised for the upcoming season, following the earlier agreement to sign defender Jeremy Jacquet. For now, the forward’s focus remains on international duty as Spain prepare to face Saudi Arabia in their second World Cup group-stage match in Atlanta, following a surprising goalless draw with Cape Verde in their opening fixture.

Can Spain go all the way in the World Cup?