Diego Simeone has confirmed that Arsenal-linked Matheus Cunha has a deal in place to leave Atletico Madrid, as the striker prepares to join Wolves.
After recent links to Arsenal, Sky Sports reported on Tuesday night that Atletico Madrid had agreed a deal with Wolves for the transfer of Matheus Cunha, with personal terms also having been agreed.
Diego Simeone has now confirmed the likely departure, saying: “Yes, Cunha is at a point of departure, almost about to sign with his new club.”
Fabrizio Romano reports that the total value of the deal could reach €52m (£45.9m), whilst Sky reported it would be an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy.
The player could be involved as soon as January 4th – Wolves’ first game after the window officially opens.
Simon Stone of the BBC also reported that Cunha was having his medical on Wednesday, as Julen Lopetegui’s top target for the winter window.
This news seemingly puts to bed any rumours of an Arsenal move for the player.
The Gunners were said to be one of the clubs in the mix for Cunha, weighing up whether to enter the running as Mikel Arteta considers how to deal with the loss of Gabriel Jesus to injury.
As well as Wolves, Everton and Leeds United were also showing serious interest, and Aston Villa got a mention but didn’t seem to be as heavily involved as their Premier League rivals.
In total, Cunha played 1,758 minutes for Atletico Madrid across 54 appearances, scoring seven goals, assisting six, and winning two penalties leading to goals. The player will want to be much more involved on the pitch at his next club.