Arsenal behind in race to sign Darwin Nunez from Benfica

According to reports, Arsenal is trailing Manchester United, Chelsea, and PSG in the race to sign Benfica striker Darwin Nunez.

Following Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s departure in the January transfer window, Mikel Arteta is looking to strengthen his squad with the addition of a new striker this summer, while Alexandre Lacazette’s contract expires at the end of the season, he could leave on a free transfer.

Arsenal had approached Nunez’s agent, according to reports, and had begun talks about a move for the Benfica striker.

Chelsea and Manchester United, according to The Athletic, are the two Premier League clubs in the running to sign the Uruguay international this summer.

According to the report, Paris Saint-Germain is also interested in Nunez, and Benfica is willing to sell the striker for €70 million (£58.2 million).

Nunez has 29 goals for Benfica this season in all competitions, including a hat-trick in Benfica’s win over Belenenses at the weekend.

The Uruguayan also scored in Benfica’s 3-1 Champions League quarter-final first-leg loss to Liverpool last week.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp backed Nunez to have a ‘big career’ ahead of the return leg.

‘Extremely attractive young man who is also a competent player. ‘I have to say, he’s a really, really good player,’ Klopp said.

‘Of course, I knew him before, but he played in front of me with tough battles against Ibou Konate.’ With his finish, he looked strong, quick, and calm.

‘Wow, that was fantastic. If he stays healthy, he has a bright future ahead of him, as I always say in these situations.’