Liverpool have triggered Victor Munoz's release clause to sign the Osasuna winger, effectively ending Newcastle's pursuit of the 22-year-old Spain international in a deal worth £34.6m.

Sky Sports News had reported that Newcastle were in advanced talks with the Spanish club, but Liverpool moved swiftly to activate the clause and reach an agreement with Osasuna. Munoz is expected to undergo a medical in the USA, where he is currently on duty with Spain at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

A familiar story for Newcastle

The move echoes events from last summer, when Liverpool similarly outmaneuvered Newcastle to sign Hugo Ekitike — and, in the same window, also secured Alexander Isak, Newcastle's star striker, in a double blow for the Magpies.

Munoz's rise through football's elite academies

Munoz began his development at Barcelona's La Masia academy at the age of 11 before moving to Real Madrid's youth setup in 2023. It was at Real Madrid that current Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso handed him his LaLiga debut in May 2025, bringing him on as a substitute for Vinicius Junior in a fixture against Barcelona.

That same summer, Munoz signed a five-year contract with Osasuna. He went on to make 34 league appearances last season, contributing six goals and two assists before earning his place in Spain's FIFA World Cup 2026 squad.