Matheus Cunha truth as Wolves readied for Arsenal and Nottingham Forest talks

Wolves maintain their rigid not-for-sale stance for Matheus Cunha despite reports of an incoming bidding war between Arsenal and Nottingham Forest, Birmingham World understands.

Sources close to the club insist Cunha will not be sold in the January transfer window as the Brazilian is absolutely vital to the squad, especially during the ongoing Premier League relegation battle.

Letting Cunha go would be injudicious considering just how influential he can be, even against the bigger teams. The 25-year-old has scored 10 goals and made four assists in 21 Premier League matches so far this campaign, directly participating in 44 per cent of Wolves’ total goalscoring output.

Truth regarding Arsenal and Nottingham Forest interest

It’s understood the interest from both Arsenal and Nottingham Forest can be considered concrete. The Gunners are eager to strengthen in attack following Gabriel Jesus’ serious injury while Forest want to bolster their forward ranks as they seek to secure surprise Champions League qualification. Wolves are ready to halt any talks with either Arsenal and Forest if they make any offers, however.

Signed from Atletico Madrid in July 2023 for £43 million after an initial six-month loan, Cunha has contributed 26 goals and 13 assists in 78 matches for Wolves to date. The 11-time former Brazil international has now played more times for the Old Gold than he has any other team throughout his career.

It appeared earlier on in January that Cunha was going to put pen to paper on a new long-term contract at Molineux but Birmingham World understands talks stalled over a potential relegation release clause. It’s thought the presence of such a clause wasn’t an issue but the figure being requested was a sticking point.

Vitor Pereira displeased with Matheus Cunha

New Wolves boss Vitor Pereira was unimpressed by Cunha’s body language during the recent 3-1 defeat away at Chelsea in the Premier League. It was a difficult night at Stamford Bridge - particularly for Cunha as he only registered one of his five shots on target - but the lack of spirit in the second half was concerning.

Pereira has let Cunha off on this occasion but he will not accept the same behaviour again. It’s a similar case for Mario Lemina, who has already overstepped the line following his refusal to play away at Newcastle United.

"He can be frustrated as he wants to win, but everyone in the dressing room wants to win,” Pereira said of Cunha on Monday night.

“I don't like this body language. I want someone, as a captain, trying to help the team - running, suffering and fighting all together. But this is something I can understand. Next time, I won't understand."

Pereira also commented on the Cunha recent transfer speculation, admitting: “He is committed to Wolves but when you keep hearing about other clubs, then it is human [to be distracted].

"But he needs to put his mind on his targets and increase his level after injury and help his team again with his quality. The team needs him with good energy and not with frustration. He must slow down and put his mind in the right way."