Victor Munoz has revealed that a conversation with Andoni Iraola convinced him to join Liverpool instead of Newcastle. The 22-year-old became Liverpool's first signing of the summer transfer window after sealing a move from LaLiga side Osasuna in a deal worth a reported £34.5 million.
Newcastle deal hijacked
Confirmation of the transfer came as a surprise to many, with Newcastle reportedly having reached an agreement with both the player and Osasuna before being hijacked by their Premier League rivals at the 11th hour. Speaking to Spanish outlet Cadena SER after completing his move to Liverpool, Munoz explained how Iraola convinced him to perform a U-turn and make the switch to Anfield.
“He transmitted his confidence to me, the way his team plays… he played an important role in my decision,” the Spain international said. “It all happened very quickly.”
Injury setback
Liverpool fans will have to wait to see Munoz in action, as a muscular injury has sidelined him so far. The 22-year-old will miss Spain’s final group game against Uruguay this weekend but is targeting a return in the knockout phase, should the reigning European champions make it that far.
“We were managing the injury, but I felt some discomfort again and we’re trying to restart the process so I can get back on the pitch as soon as possible,” Munoz added. “These have been very difficult moments because this is a childhood dream and seeing it threatened by an injury is incredibly frustrating. It’s the only thing I’m thinking about. It’s a dream and I want to be back on the pitch as soon as possible.”
Further transfer plans
While the Reds have signed Munoz, the deal is not expected to impact plans to sign at least one more forward. In addition to Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola, Liverpool hold a strong interest in RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande. Despite being knocked back in their first attempt to sign the Ivory Coast international with an opening offer of €100 million (£86.8 million) rejected by Leipzig, reports claim they are likely to go back in with an improved bid, though the asking price is believed to be £112 million.
