Latest developments
- Aston Villa are keen to sign Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
- The Brazilian has been linked with Arsenal and Nottingham Forest.
- Jhon Duran's imminent sale has forced Villa to bring in a new forward.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Former Villa scout shares insight
Aston Villa are stepping up their pursuit of Wolves' Matheus Cunha, as they aim to fend off Arsenal and Nottingham Forest to sign the Brazilian.
This news comes from Mick Brown, a former Villa scout, who was speaking to footballinsider247.com.
Value (3/5): Duran sale helps Villa
Arguably their best performer this season, Wolves will be desperate to hold onto Cunha until at least the summer, and will demand more than the £41.8 million market valuation.
With the sale of Jhon Duran agreed for around £64 million, Villa will have the funds available.
Suitability (4.5/5): Adds something fresh
Duran's sale is largely down to Unai Emery having one top-class striker too many at his disposal, and though Cunha is seen as the Colombian's replacement, crucially, he is a different type of forward.
Able to sit in behind and play out wide, the 25-year-old will offer Villa a different style going forward – something that has helped him to 10 Premier League goals already this term.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Joining a stronger side
Cunha won't be expected to play up front, but can provide cover for Ollie Watkins when necessary.
Compared with other Villa attackers, he will have plenty of competition from Morgan Rogers, Donyell Malen and Leon Bailey, but given Villa's need for extra strength in depth, he should get more than enough opportunities.
Logic (3.5/5): Relegation or UCL?
Capped 11 times for Brazil, Cunha will have loftier ambitions than a relegation fight with Wolves, but he at least is the main man at Molineux, and could wait to decide his future in the summer.
That said, the chance to switch 18th place for a UEFA Champions League Last 16 tie doesn't come around every day. Villa will just have to be careful not to overspend.
Whisper+ verdict: 17.5/25
The authenticity is good, as is the suitability, but Wolves' determination could see this stall.
