Alious“We Didn’t Even Listen” – Osasuna Chief Explains Why Sunderland’s Big January Move Was Instantly Rejected
Osasuna sporting director Braulio Vázquez has revealed that Sunderland’s ambitious January approach for winger Víctor Muñoz was never seriously considered, insisting the Spanish club refused to entertain negotiations at any stage.
Speaking in a recent press conference, and quoted by Diario de Navarra, Vázquez was asked directly about Sunderland’s late-window attempts to sign the 22-year-old — a player who has quickly become one of Osasuna’s most valuable assets.
Reports in Spain had claimed Sunderland launched a major push to land Muñoz before the transfer deadline, making multiple offers that grew in value as the window neared its end. The Black Cats were believed to have opened with a bid of around €20 million, before returning with an improved proposal worth €25 million.
It was also suggested Sunderland were willing to sweeten the deal by including Eliezer Mayenda in a potential player-plus-cash agreement.
However, Osasuna’s response was immediate and uncompromising.
Vázquez made it clear the club never had any interest in negotiating and instead remained fully committed to the release clause in Muñoz’s contract.
“We didn’t even listen to them; we stuck to the clause,” he stated.
Why Sunderland Were Never Going to Get Him
Osasuna’s stance is largely influenced by the financial structure of the deal. The club are believed to owe 50% of any future sale to Real Madrid, meaning any offer would have to be enormous to make it worthwhile.
Because of that, Osasuna reportedly want at least €40 million for Muñoz — the same figure as his release clause — ensuring the club still receives a significant payout even after Madrid’s share is deducted.
Vázquez also stressed that Muñoz himself is not pushing for a move, and remains committed to the club that helped elevate his career.
He explained that Osasuna signed the winger from the Primera RFEF when he had barely featured at La Liga level, paying around €5 million for his services.
According to Vázquez, the player is grateful for the trust Osasuna placed in him and sees the club as the perfect environment for his continued development.
“As of today, we’re not considering him leaving, and neither is he,” he added.
Premier League Interest Growing
While Sunderland may have been firmly shut down, Osasuna are aware that interest in Muñoz is rising rapidly.
Sunderland are not the only English club linked, with reports also suggesting Tottenham Hotspur have been monitoring him, highlighting just how much attention his performances are attracting across the Premier League.
With English clubs capable of meeting large release clauses, the question now is not whether interest will return — but whether Osasuna can hold onto their star winger if a club eventually decides to activate the €40m clause.
Alious
