Real Madrid ‘to block’ Sunderland moves for Victor Munoz and Thiago Pitarch | OneFootball

TeamTalk reports that Real Madrid could block Sunderland attempts to sign Victor Munoz and Thiago Pitarch this summer.

The Black Cats are shaping their summer plans after securing Premier League safety with wins over Leeds United and arch rivals Newcastle United. They remain in the hunt for a top seven finish, which would surely secure only their second European entry and first since 1973.

Attacking midfielder Pitarch, 18, was said to be open to a move and had featured on Sunderland's shortlist. He has since stepped into Real's senior set-up and is considered an integral part of their long-term plans.

Munoz is now at Osasuna, where a Real buy-back clause is understood to complicate any deal. The report adds that Real are tracking the winger closely after his maiden Spain call-up and debut goal in a 3-0 friendly win over Serbia.

Real are said to be ready to trigger the clause this summer, which would take Munoz back to the Bernabeu. Despite that, Sunderland are understood to retain strong ties with Real and continue to assess other prospects as their recruitment drive continues.

Source: Sunderland Echo