Liverpool signs Victor Munoz, Newcastle disappointed

Liverpool signed a contract with Victor Munoz, a 22-year-old Spaniard, who became Andoni Iraola's first acquisition as coach of "The Reds". Liverpool have activated a €40 million buyout clause in the Osasuna winger's contract, opening the way to a six-year deal at Anfield. Quick actions by sporting director Richard Hughes allowed the transfer to be finalized at the last minute, which surprised Newcastle, who were counting on acquiring Munoz as a replacement for Anthony Gordon on the left wing.  Newcastle thought they had a deal in place for Munoz, but Liverpool pulled off a masterful transfer move that left the Magpies frustrated. The club from the north-east of England now plans to focus on signing Cody Gakpo as an alternative to Munoz. The 27-year-old Dutchman sees his future uncertain after the dismissal of Arne Slot as coach, and competition from Rio Ngumoh and Munoz may force him to look for new challenges. Tottenham and Atletico Madrid have also expressed interest in Gakpo, but Newcastle have included him on their wishlist alongside two of his Arsenal teammates, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli. Liverpool are considering selling Gakpo, who signed a huge contract extension last year, giving Hughes full control over his transfer future. The club does not plan to sell it cheaply, and the price is around £70 million. Any money from the sale of Gakpo could be used to strengthen other key areas such as the right winger, right back and midfield.