Matheus Cunha state of play: Wolves ‘close’ but Leeds, Arsenal or Aston Villa can still hijack

Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Julen Lopetegui has revealed that a deal is ‘close’ for Matheus Cunha amid transfer speculation over the last few weeks. The transfer is yet to be formally completed, however, and there are still a host of Premier League clubs in the running that could make a last-ditch attempt for the forward’s signature.

Atletico Madrid look destined to sell Cunha this winter and the 23-year-old, who is yet to select his destination, is certainly not short of interest. It has been widely reported this week that Arsenal and Leeds United have both made late contact with Cunha’s agent to try and tempt him to make an alternative move, but Wolves are the club leading the race as it stands.

When quizzed by Marca about how he hopes to transform the Wanderers in the coming months, Lopetegui made a big revelation about the transfer saga. He said: “Convincing the guys that they have much more capacity. We will also try to improve the team in the January market. Cunha is close. The assemblies are built from behind - you have to be solid.”

The former Real Madrid head coach seemed very confident that the transfer would get over the line, but with the January window yet to open there could still be a twist in the tale. Premier League table toppers Arsenal could prove to be a real threat, as they are looking to add depth to their forward line with Gabriel Jesus currently sidelined through injury.

Leeds are yet to fully recover from the departure of Raphinha to Barcelona and they have plenty of funds available from both that deal and Kalvin Phillips’ transfer to Manchester City. Aston Villa, meanwhile, are yet another English top flight side to be linked. Unai Emery has shortlisted Cunha but he is not thought to be a priority for the Villans.

The versatile attacker has struggled for game time with Atletico this season as he has made just 11 appearances in La Liga, totting up a mere 370 minutes. Cunha is yet to score in any competition this term but there is no doubt of his talent as he was a key player last campaign with six goals and six assists in 29 league matches. Cunha’s current market value is around £30 million.