Matheus Cunha has confirmed his desire to leave Wolverhampton Wanderers to pursue his ambition of winning major trophies.
The 25-year-old Brazilian forward attracted significant interest from Arsenal in January.
Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Nottingham Forest, and Manchester United have all expressed interest in signing him.
Despite the interest, Cunha remained at Wolves and even signed a new contract.
This new four-and-a-half-year deal extended his commitment to the club until 2029.
The contract reportedly includes a £62.5 million release clause.
Cunha has now publicly confirmed reports from January that he intends to leave the club in the summer transfer window.
His 13 Premier League goals this season are likely to secure Wolves` Premier League status, barring an unexpected comeback from Leicester City or Ipswich Town in the relegation battle.
Having seemingly achieved his immediate goal with Wolves, Cunha is now eager to join a club where he can compete for top honors, a desire he held even during the January transfer window.
Speaking to the Guardian, Cunha explained, `I received numerous offers, but I wouldn`t have felt right leaving mid-season when the club was in a difficult situation, potentially facing relegation. Now that we are close to securing our Premier League status…`
`…But I`ve made it clear that I need to take the next step. I want to compete for titles, for major achievements. I believe I have the potential to do so.`
Cunha joined Wolves in 2023 from Atletico Madrid, initially on loan before making the move permanent for £44 million.
Despite playing for clubs like Sion, RB Leipzig, and Hertha Berlin, Cunha has yet to win a major club trophy.
However, he has achieved international success with Brazil, winning the Toulon Tournament in 2019 and an Olympic gold medal at the Tokyo 2021 Games.
Cunha`s talents extend beyond the field; he is fluent in six languages: Portuguese, English, Italian, French, German, and Spanish.
Gratitude to Wolves
Cunha also expressed gratitude to Wolves, acknowledging the importance of a supportive environment for players to flourish. He said, `Sometimes, all we crave in life is affection. People assume we have it all, but we are human beings with our own struggles. Wolves gave me back that joy. The fans have given me so much. My current status, my development as a player, and my happiness are all thanks to them. I am truly grateful to Wolves.`
Reflecting on the demands of professional football, Cunha added, `I love learning, but I don`t enjoy the football lifestyle. It deprives you of so much. I left home and have dedicated my life to football since I was 13. Maybe after I retire, I`ll consider coaching, but first, I need a few years to rest, clear my head, and experience a normal life for a while. I need a change.`
