Andoni Iraola has reportedly played a key role in helping Liverpool secure a deal to sign Victor Munoz this summer. News emerged on Wednesday that the Reds look set to sign the 22-year-old Osasuna forward and beat Newcastle United to his signature.
Liverpool Agree £34.5m Deal
Liverpool have agreed a deal worth £34.5 million to sign Munoz, after agreeing to pay the release clause in the forward's contract with the La Liga club. Bayer Leverkusen, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Newcastle have all been believed to have been in the race to sign Munoz, but Liverpool have beaten their rivals to agree a deal to bring the winger to Anfield.
Munoz will be expected to sign a six-year contract to become a Liverpool player and underwent a medical on Wednesday afternoon while with the Spain squad for the World Cup.
Iraola's Influence Emerges
Once a deal is completed, Munoz is expected to become the first signing of Iraola's time as Liverpool boss, and it has emerged that the role the new head coach has played in the deal. The Daily Mail has reported that Liverpool have been keeping tabs on Munoz for some time, but ramped up their interest following the appointment of Iraola as the club's manager.
The report claims that Munoz's name was discussed among Liverpool's plans for the new season and the summer transfer window, with a move approved, in part, thanks to Iraola's extensive knowledge of the player and the La Liga market.
Further Forward Signings Possible
Munoz may not end up the only forward signing that Liverpool make this summer, with it being understood that the move for the Osasuna star will not affect interest in RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande. Leipzig are hesitant about allowing Diomande to leave the club this summer, with suggestions that the Bundesliga outfit value the 19-year-old at around €100 million (£86.5 million).
Liverpool will be keeping an eye on how Munoz fares at this summer's World Cup, waiting to see if the forward will add to the two caps he already has for his country. Munoz was an unused substitute in Spain's goalless draw with Cape Verde in their tournament opener on Monday in Atlanta, but will hope to get minutes in the remaining Group H fixtures against Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.
