Ahead of the January transfer window, Leeds United were reportedly in talks to sign Matheus Cunha from Atletico Madrid – but a few months on, he has joined Wolves and it seems Leeds have dodged a bullet with the striker.
Cunha, 23, was a target for Leeds when the Brazil star left Hertha Berlin to join Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2021. Since then, he managed 15 goal involvements in 54 games for Atleti. But he rarely started for the La Liga side.
Indeed, it was perceived that Cunha had been somewhat unlucky under Diego Simeone despite having an impact off the bench. The ex-Leipzig man only started 11 of his 54 outings. So, he decided to move on in January.
A report from 90Min in December said that Leeds had opened talks with Cunha’s representatives over a move to Elland Road. A player that Victor Orta clearly admires having previously tried to bring him to Yorkshire in 2021.
But Wolves got their man. Initially signing him on loan with an obligation to permanently buy him in the summer, Cunha’s £44m permanent clause was activated three games later. That is despite those three games, being a sub.
Leeds dodged a bullet with Wolves striker Cunha, despite Saturday goal
So, Leeds did try to sign Cunha but ultimately – and out of their control – he chose Wolves. But his start to life in English football has not gone to plan. Just one goal and one assist in 12 games. His form, worse than at Atletico.
He has started five of his 12 outings, all of which have come in the Premier League. His first goal for the club came on Saturday, leaping off the bench and his deflected effort trickled past Illan Meslier. Hardly one for the ages.
Wolves have spent a fortune on him. A fee that would completely smash the Leeds record transfer – in the form of Georgie Rutter at £35m. He is failing to produce; one deflected goal and one assist in 12. Leeds dodged a bullet.
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