Arsenal have recently stepped up their offensive game although a majority of their goals have come from set-piece situations. And while Mikel Arteta would welcome points in whatever way they come, he does require an out-and-out striker from next season.
According to Caught Offside, the Gunners have held ‘initial talks’ to sign Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers next year. The report adds that Manchester United are also keen on the Brazilian striker but Arsenal’s contact over a possible transfer hints at the Londoners being keen on seeing off any competition for Cunha’s services.
The 25-year-old has been in terrific form this season, having scored seven times and assisted on three occasions in the Premier League. Wolves will reportedly seek £60 million to part company with their prized asset, which should not be a price tag that Arsenal will have too many problems in matching.
Arsenal likely to trump Man Utd to Cunha
Manchester United have been linked with a host of strikers since Ruben Amorim took over, though any possible arrival would need to compete with Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund for a starting berth. Moreover, the former Sporting Lisbon boss seems to have made Viktor Gyokeres his priority and given the duo’s close relationship, United will fancy their chances of landing him.
Nevertheless, Arsenal is likely to be a more attractive destination for Matheus Cunha primarily because he would walk into their starting eleven. In addition to that, he has a realistic shot at playing consistently in the Champions League whilst also competing for the Premier League – a challenge the Gunners have arguably fallen short of due to a lack of goal-scoring options.
A transfer for Cunha is unlikely to materialise in January, however, as Wolves would not want to lose any key players amid a relegation fight although to Arsenal’s potential advantage, Cunha could become available for slightly cheaper in the summer if indeed the East Midlanders drop to the Championship at the end of the season.