Man Utd's pursuit of Portuguese striker depends on top-four finish

Manchester United are unlikely to sign Benfica striker Darwin Nunez unless they qualify for next season's Champions League.

The Uruguayan has been in sensational form this campaign, bagging 26 goals and two assists from just 33 games for Benfica.

His form has grabbed the attention of several elite clubs, and The Telegraph claims that the Red Devils are keen on landing him.

However, there are no assurances of that happening at the moment. Nunez is determined to play in the Champions League next term.

United have been regulars in the elite European competition, but they face a tough task of qualifying for the forthcoming campaign.

The club are currently sixth in the Premier League table, four points behind fourth-placed Arsenal, who have a game in hand.

Atletico Madrid are presently deemed favourites to land Nunez, but he is unlikely to come on the cheap for the Spanish side.

Benfica bought him from Almeria for just £20m, but they are now eyeing at least thrice the figure to sanction his departure.