Barcelona explored the possibility of signing Spanish winger Victor Munoz this summer, but Real Madrid reportedly blocked any chance of their former player moving to the Camp Nou.
According to reports, Barça viewed Munoz as an attractive option due to his versatility, pace and growing reputation in La Liga.
However, Real Madrid retained a percentage of the player’s rights after selling him to Osasuna last year, giving them significant influence over his future.
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Liverpool have now emerged as the favourites to secure Munoz’s signature after activating his €40 million release clause, hijacking a deal that Newcastle United had been working on.
Munoz’s development has been unique. The winger spent part of his youth career at Barcelona’s famed academy before later joining Real Madrid and eventually moving to Osasuna, where he established himself as one of Spain’s most promising attacking talents.
Real Madrid reportedly had little interest in helping their fiercest rivals strengthen and instead stand to benefit financially from Munoz’s expected move to Anfield.
For Barcelona, the setback is frustrating as the 22-year-old fits the profile sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick have been targeting. His ability to operate across the front line, combined with his direct style and international experience, made him an appealing option, reports Barca Universal.
Liverpool’s swift intervention ultimately changed the course of negotiations, with the Premier League club moving decisively to secure one of Spain’s most highly-rated young attackers.
While Barcelona may look back on the missed opportunity with disappointment, reports suggest there was never a realistic path to completing a deal once Real Madrid became involved. Munoz is now expected to continue his development under Andoni Iraola at Liverpool, where many believe he has the potential to become a major success.
