Transfer insider Dean Jones has been told that Manchester United are 'extremely close' to signing Benfica forward Darwin Nunez, GiveMeSport report.

The Red Devils appear to be on the hunt for a new marquee striker this summer, with Nunez and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford.

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Approaches have been made for both and United are willing to spend big on Nunez, who knocked Erik ten Hag’s Ajax side out of the Champions League last season.

Ajax defender Jurrien Timber is reportedly on the brink of reuniting with Ten Hag in Manchester, and it looks as if Nunez could follow suit.

The Latest: Jones’ claim

Jones, talking to GMS, had this to say on United and Nunez, stating that he’s been told from a ‘source’ that an Old Trafford move is ‘extremely close’.

“One source described this deal to United to me as being ‘extremely close’.

“They consider Atletico Madrid as their main rivals to sign him, from what I hear, but obviously, loads around Europe are looking. If Darwin does move to Old Trafford, it will be a brilliant signing for the Ten Hag era.”

The Verdict: Fingers crossed

Nunez has come off the back of an outstanding campaign, scoring 34 times in 41 games. He impressed as a centre-forward, left-winger and second striker, so a move to United could be just what Ten Hag needs.

It looks like it could be an expensive deal with United willing to spend €80m (£67.8m), but you’d like to think it would be a shrewd long-term investment following his excellent campaign.

The new boss could find himself short of attacking options with Edinson Cavani leaving, so Nunez could be the ideal signing to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo in a front two, in behind or on the wing.

In other news: Reliable journalist leaks Man Utd talks as Ten Hag now eyes 'terrific' Englishman.