Manchester United target Darwin Nunez has ditched his agent ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Benfica hotshot is expected to be one of Europe's most sought-after strikers over the coming months after a sensational season in the Primeira Liga and Champions League. And now Nunez, who has scored 28 goals in 33 appearances this campaign, has left Edgardo Lasalvia after being tipped to join super agent Jorge Mendes ' array of talent.
Confirming the news on Thursday evening, the 22-year-old tweeted : "I want to clarify that I will not renew my contract with my representative Edgardo Lasalvia. I also want to clarify that neither my family nor I have received any threats [to remain with Lasalvia] and we are fine."
The changes of agencies hints that a transfer could be in the offing for Nunez, whose post comes amid links with a move to United, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.
The Uruguayan did himself no harm earlier this week by scoring against Liverpool in Benfica's Champions League quarter-final defeat. While the Portuguese giants lost 3-1, it was Nunez's goal - ultimately rendered a consolation - which gave them hope, coolly finishing from a low cross which Ibrahima Konate failed to clear.
Not only a goalscorer, the nine-capped international can create chances for his teammates with his probing dribbles when playing either side of a forward line. His well-rounded skillset has enticed clubs across the continent, with BT Sport pundit Michael Owen waxing lyrical about the youngster on Tuesday.
"He's a great shape for starters. Nowadays, if you're going to lead the line on your own you've got to have a real presence and he's got that," Owen explained in his analysis. "He's got size, he's good in the air and he's quick as well. He's deceptively quick. Only 22-years-old.
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"You think of how many decent strikers Uruguay have had in the past, and this lad looks like the next on the conveyor belt. He could be the next one to join a top European club, he's got plenty about him."
But while Liverpool experienced his quality midweek, the Red Devils appear to be chasing his signature. United interim manager Ralf Rangnick has even admitted that his club should be targeting a centre forward this summer to replace the outgunning Edinson Cavani - Nunez's Uruguay teammate - and support Cristiano Ronaldo, who will turn 38 halfway through the next term.
"This is obvious," Rangnick told a news conference when asked whether the Red Devils should add a "younger" to the squad. "Edison's contract is running out in the summer, and the club needs the best possible centre forward. This is an obvious one. I think everyone is aware of that."
