Newcastle United push for Víctor Muñoz as Anthony Gordon replacement

Newcastle United are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Osasuna winger Víctor Muñoz as they look to strengthen their attacking options following Anthony Gordon's departure.

The 22-year-old has emerged as one of the club's priority targets, with reports in Spain suggesting Newcastle are keen to finalise a deal before the World Cup increases competition for his signature.

Eddie Howe's side have already submitted an offer worth €35 million plus bonuses and remain well positioned to secure the Spaniard's services.

However, Osasuna are standing firm and continue to point interested clubs towards the player's €40 million release clause.

According to Noticias de Navarra, Newcastle are eager to avoid a situation where a strong World Cup campaign attracts additional suitors.

The Premier League club reportedly view Muñoz as an ideal replacement for Gordon and are looking to accelerate negotiations during the tournament rather than waiting until it concludes.

That urgency reflects both the player's impressive development and the growing attention he is receiving across Europe.

Having followed Newcastle's recruitment under Eddie Howe, the club have increasingly targeted younger players with significant upside rather than focusing solely on established stars. Muñoz fits that profile perfectly.

The winger is also understood to be open to a move to St James' Park, which could help Newcastle maintain momentum in negotiations.

Newcastle's existing proposal has brought them close to Osasuna's demands but not quite far enough.

Reports indicate the Spanish club are unwilling to negotiate below the €40 million release clause and believe the player's value could rise even further in the coming weeks.

That position is understandable given Muñoz's excellent first season following his arrival from Real Madrid.

Osasuna paid just €5 million to sign him in the summer of 2025 and have already seen his market value increase substantially after an impressive campaign in La Liga.

A sale at the release clause would represent a remarkable return on their investment after only one season.

Before Newcastle accelerated their pursuit, Sunderland had also attempted to sign Muñoz.

The Black Cats reportedly offered up to €25 million during the winter transfer window, but both the player and Osasuna rejected the proposal.

It remains unclear whether Sunderland retain any interest heading into the summer market, but Newcastle now appear to be the Premier League club making the strongest push.

The Magpies' ability to offer European football and compete financially at a higher level may also strengthen their position.

One significant complication remains.

Real Madrid retained 50% of the player's rights when they sold Muñoz to Osasuna and also inserted a buyback clause into the agreement.

As a result, Los Blancos maintain considerable influence over his future.

Reports from Spain indicate Real Madrid have yet to make their intentions clear, leaving uncertainty over whether they could intervene in a potential Newcastle move.

For now, the Spanish giants remain silent.

Newcastle are expected to continue negotiations in an effort to bridge the remaining gap between their offer and Osasuna's valuation.

The World Cup could prove decisive. A strong tournament from Muñoz would likely increase interest from rival clubs and strengthen Osasuna's negotiating position.

For Newcastle, securing an agreement quickly may be the most effective way to avoid a transfer battle later in the summer. Whether Real Madrid decide to become involved remains another key storyline to watch.

Would Víctor Muñoz be the right player to replace Anthony Gordon at Newcastle United, or should the Magpies pursue a more established Premier League winger?