Arsenal have one major concern about signing wolves star Matheus Cunha

Arsenal’s pursuit of Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha has encountered a significant obstacle, with manager Mikel Arteta reportedly harboring reservations about the player’s disciplinary record.

Talent vs Temperament: Arsenal’s doubts over Wolves star Matheus Cunha

Cunha, 25, has been a standout performer for Wolves since his arrival from Atletico Madrid in 2023, netting 31 goals in 85 appearances. This season alone, he has tallied 11 goals and four assists in 23 Premier League matches, underscoring his attacking prowess.

In February, Cunha committed his future to Wolves by signing a new contract extending until 2029. Notably, this contract includes a £62.5 million release clause, set to become active in the upcoming summer transfer window.

This clause has piqued the interest of several top Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United.

However, Arteta’s concerns stem from Cunha’s recent disciplinary issues. The Brazilian forward was sent off for violent conduct during an FA Cup match against Bournemouth, following an altercation with Milos Kerkez.

The incident escalated when Cunha initially refused to leave the pitch, leading to a three-match ban and potential further sanctions for improper conduct.

Earlier in the season, he faced a two-game suspension and an £80,000 fine after a clash with an Ipswich Town security team member.

Arteta places a premium on discipline and professionalism within his squad, having previously halted a move for Ivan Toney due to similar concerns.

While Cunha’s talent is undeniable, his temperament may not align with the culture Arteta is cultivating at Arsenal.

Despite these reservations, Cunha’s on-field contributions remain impressive. His performances have drawn praise from pundits, with Arsenal legend Martin Keown lauding his abilities but cautioning against his disciplinary lapses.

Keown remarked that Cunha’s goal against Bournemouth was “top-drawer,” yet highlighted the need to eliminate the “ugly” aspects of his game.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Arsenal must weigh the potential benefits of acquiring Cunha against the risks posed by his disciplinary record. Striking a balance between talent and temperament will be crucial in their decision-making process.