Wolves’ star player Matheus Cunha is said to have a hefty release clause amid ongoing speculation over his future. The Brazilian forward is in high demand this season, having netted 13 goals for the Premier League side, and is now thought to be on the radar of Liverpool and several top clubs.
Cunha recently extended his contract at Molineux in January, but it’s understood that the inclusion of the release clause was a crucial element in securing the new deal. Just months after signing his contract extension, the 25-year-old has already hinted at wanting a fresh challenge this summer.
As per BBC Sport, Cunha’s release clause of $81 million can be triggered by interested clubs at the conclusion of the summer – and the price will remain unchanged even if Wolves faces relegation.
The report further suggests that Wolves now holds the reins when it comes to any potential sale of the player it acquired for approximately $45 million in 2023, ensuring they stand to make a substantial profit.
Arsenal has been heavily linked with a move for Cunha and was rumored to be considering a bid in January before he inked his new deal. Liverpool will also face competition from the likes of Manchester United and Tottenham, and other top clubs in Europe.
Cunha has made no secret of his ambition to compete at the highest level, issuing a statement expressing his desire to vie for titles.
“I had a lot of offers (to leave in January) but I wouldn’t feel well if I had done it,’ he said. “Some things you can’t control but I couldn’t leave the club in the middle of the season, in a difficult situation, in the relegation zone.
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“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 has racked up a total of 85 appearances for Wolves over the past three seasons, scoring 31 goals. He is currently serving a suspension until mid-next month after receiving a three-match ban for lashing out at Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and headbutting him earlier this month.
Wolves has taken big strides away from the relegation places without him in recent weeks, securing a key win at Southampton after drawing with Everton. Vitor Pereira’s men sit nine points above the drop zone ahead of the game against West Ham this week.
