Matheus Cunha has declared his intention to leave Wolves in pursuit of “the next step” in his career and to compete for significant silverware.
The 25-year-old Brazilian striker was a target for Arsenal during the January transfer window.
Chelsea, Tottenham, and Nottingham Forest have also shown interest in the player, with Manchester United joining the list of potential suitors.
Despite the interest and speculation, Cunha remained at Wolves, even signing a new contract.
This new four-and-a-half-year deal commits Cunha to the club until 2029.
It is understood that the contract includes a release clause of £62.5 million.
Cunha has now publicly stated his desire to leave the club when the summer transfer window opens, confirming earlier reports.
His 13 Premier League goals this season are likely to be crucial in ensuring Wolves remain in the top division.
Having seemingly secured Wolves` Premier League status, the Brazilian international feels ready to challenge at the top end of the table.
Speaking to the Guardian, Cunha said, “I had a lot of offers, but I wouldn’t have felt right leaving mid-season in a difficult situation, while the club was in the relegation zone.”
“Now, we’re close to achieving our goal [of staying up].”
“But I’ve made it clear that I need to take the next step.”
“I want to fight for titles, for big things. I have potential.”
Cunha joined Wolves from Atletico Madrid in 2023, initially on loan before a permanent £44 million move.
Throughout his club career, which includes spells at Sion, RB Leipzig, and Hertha Berlin, Cunha has yet to win a major trophy.
However, he has achieved success with Brazil, winning the 2019 Toulon Tournament and an Olympic gold medal at the Tokyo 2021 Games.
Beyond his footballing talent, Cunha is also remarkably multilingual, speaking six languages fluently: Portuguese, English, Italian, French, German, and Spanish.
`Wolves Gave Me Joy`
Cunha acknowledges the importance of a supportive environment for players to flourish.
He added: “Sometimes all we want in life is affection.”
“People think we have everything, but we’re human beings, too. We need understanding – we have our difficulties.”
“Wolves gave me that joy back. The fans [have given] me a lot.”
“The status I have today, the player I am now, and the happiness I’m feeling are because of them. I’m really grateful to Wolves.”
“I love learning, but I don’t like the football life. The football life deprives you of a lot.”
“I left home and have been living off football since I was 13.”
“Maybe when I stop playing, I’ll consider coaching.”
“But I’ll need to take a few years off to rest, clear my head, and live like a normal person for a while. I need a different life.”
