Wolves have ‘already activated’ permanent deal clause for signing after just three games

Wolverhampton Wanderers have already activated the permanent deal clause in Matheus Cunha’s contract, bringing the Brazilian to Molineux on a long-term basis, according to a reputable report. Wolves announced the acquisition of Cunha on Christmas Day, as it was revealed the attacker had joined a loan deal with an option to buy.

That clause has now been triggered, meaning the Wanderers will have their man well beyond June - when his loan would have originally ended. Cunha has only played three games so far, including the Carabao Cup quarter final defeat to Nottingham Forest, but he has already done enough to impress.

Transfer news journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news this afternoon as he tweeted: “Wolverhampton have already activated the permanent deal clause. The loan will become permanent from Atletico Madrid. Clause triggered.” The 23-year-old joins for a fee of around €50 million (£44.4 million).

Cunha was new manager Julen Lopetegui’s first loan signing and he now becomes the Spaniard’s maiden permanent addition. A versatile player capable of playing in attacking midfield, on either flank, or as a centre forward, Cunha is expected to become a key man at Molineux. He will provide competition for the likes of Raul Jimenez, Goncalo Guedes and Daniel Podence as he pushes his new teammates to the next level.

Wolves are also expected to bring in a new midfielder - or two - as former Southampton man Mario Lemina reportedly has a medical scheduled and a bid has been lodged for Paris Saint-Germain playmaker Pablo Sarabia. The Wanderers’ next Premier League match is at home to West Ham United on Saturday, January 14.