It had been widely reported that West Ham United tried to sign Darwin Nunez from Benfica towards the end of the January transfer window, as the Hammers made a late effort which was not enough to take the striker from Lisbon.
A lot has happened since then, with the 22-year-old continuing to shine for the Eagles, and as Record today features a big front page about the striker, they recall what happened between he and the London side.
According to the newspaper, West Ham showed up willing to pay €40m plus €5m on bonuses for Darwin. That was, of course, not enough to convince Benfica, who were demanding €60m for the sale at the time.
There is, however, a reason which may explain it.
The report claims that Darwin Nunez ‘wrinkled up his nose’ when told of West Ham’s approach.
It’s said the player believes he can join a top side, such as Atletico Madrid or Manchester City, and continues to expect a big move in the summer transfer window.
That seems to be a distinct possibility now, because following his goal against Ajax which took Benfica to the Champions League’s quarter-finals, and the other 25 he already scored this season, the Eagles have set a new price for his sale, and that’s of €80m.