Latest Developments
- Newcastle United are interested in Matheus Cunha move.
- Arsenal and Nottingham Forest are among their potential competitors.
- Brazilian has a release clause in Wolverhampton Wanderers deal.
Whisper+ Analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): Newcastle join Cunha race
Cunha was previously linked with a move to Arsenal in the January transfer window, while Nottingham Forest recently emerged as a contender for his signature.
According to TEAMtalk, Newcastle have now entered the race to sign the Brazil international, who is likely to leave Wolves this summer.
Value (3/5): Release clause in Wolves deal
Cunha only signed a new deal in February which is set to run until the summer of 2029. However, his fresh contract contains a release clause in the region of £62m.
There may be some doubt as to whether Newcastle will be willing to pay that fee, or they could look to negotiate a different price with Wolves.
Suitability (3.5/5): Proven goalscorer
Cunha has demonstrated during his time with Wolves that he is a capable goalscorer in the Premier League. The Brazilian has been in fine form this season, netting 13 goals in 26 top-flight appearances while also chipping in with four assists.
In addition to his goalscoring prowess, Cunha is comfortable carrying the ball and dribbling past opponents, while he can also contribute to his team's link-up play outside the box rather than being a traditional number nine.
Upgrade (2.5/5): Isak remains number one
Cunha may be proven at Premier League level, but he will not get past Alexander Isak in the pecking order if the Newcastle striker remains at St James' Park beyond the end of the season.
With that said, Cunha would add depth if Newcastle can secure European football, while he could also be used in support of Isak, as he is comfortable operating as a second striker.
Logic (3.5/5): Chance to play European football
Newcastle are currently in the battle for Champions League qualification, although they have already secured European football next season. At the very least, the Magpies will be in the Conference League after they beat Liverpool in the EFL Cup final earlier this month.
Cunha will be keen to swap a team competing in the lower reaches of the division for one that will be featuring in UEFA competition. However, he may be wary of the risk that he may not get a regular starting spot with Eddie Howe's side.
Whisper+ verdict: 15/25
The Wolves forward would likely be open to a move to St James' Park, but the Magpies may be reluctant to pay his release clause if they are not planning to use him as a regular starter. He could become a more viable target if Isak were to leave this summer.
