Wolverhmpton Wanderers 'leading race to sign Matheus Cunha'

Wolverhampton Wanderers are reportedly bidding to win the race to sign Atletico Madrid forward Matheus Cunha.

The West Midlands outfit went into the break for the World Cup sitting at the bottom of the Premier League table and with the worst attacking record in the division.

Just eight goals have been netted in 15 matches, four of which have come from Ruben Neves and half of those efforts have come from the penalty spot.

However, Julen Lopetegui has since been confirmed as the replacement for Bruno Lage, and Wolves are expected to be active in the upcoming January transfer window.

While other areas of the pitch are likely to be strengthened, priority will be placed on trying to find a solution to the team's poor form in the final third.

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According to Relevo, Wolves are showing an interest in trying to secure a deal for Cunha at the midway point of the campaign.

During 2021-22, the Brazil international contributed six goals and six assists in La Liga, but it has been a different story this campaign with the 23-year-old spending much of his time since August occupying a spot among the replacements.

Cunha has made just two starts in La Liga, with as many as 14 substitute outings coming in Spain's top flight and the Champions League.

Although Atletico may ideally prefer to retain the services of the versatile forward, their surprise exit from the Champions League and lack of European football after Christmas is likely to lead to cutbacks.

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Wolves are in a position where they can offer Cunha regular first-team football, but the report adds that the race for his signature will be hotly-contested.

Earlier this week, the same outlet stated that Aston Villa were ready to move for Cunha as Unai Emery looks to catapult his new side up England's top flight.

Leeds United and Everton are also said to be monitoring the situation as they also bid to ensure that they spend the remainder of the campaign away from a relegation battle.

With over three-and-a-half years still remaining on Cunha's contract, it remains to be seen whether Atletico will insist on a permanent or loan deal.

When Atletico signed him from Hertha Berlin in August 2021, a fee of €26m was paid to the Bundesliga outfit.