AliousThe upcoming summer transfer window is expected to bring significant changes to Molineux, with Matheus Cunha’s future at Wolves emerging as a major talking point.
Although the Brazilian forward attracted considerable transfer interest in January, speculation was temporarily put to rest when he signed a new contract with the club. However, that calm was short-lived, as Wolves inserted a £62.5 million release clause in his deal, meaning he could still depart at the end of the season.
Wolves Face the Challenge of Replacing Cunha
Should Cunha leave, head coach Vitor Pereira will have the difficult task of finding a suitable replacement—especially if Wolves’ owners, Fosun, impose financial constraints on summer spending. The 25-year-old has been directly involved in 44% of Wolves’ Premier League goals this season, underscoring just how vital he has been to the team’s attacking output. His departure would make it crucial for the club to execute a well-planned summer transfer window to avoid a drop in performance.
One potential approach could involve securing external financial assistance or structuring deals creatively to generate the necessary funds for a high-quality replacement.
Wolves Encouraged to Find Cover for Toti Gomes
Beyond the uncertainty surrounding Cunha, Wolves have also been urged to strengthen another key area of the squad. Journalist Liam Keen has emphasized the importance of adding defensive depth, particularly as Toti Gomes’ contributions have been crucial to the team.
“His balance on the left side has been essential for this team. He’s been a massive miss,”* Keen explained on *The Keen & Judah Show*. *”If we’re looking ahead to next season, Wolves need another left-sided defender in case Toti Gomes is unavailable.”*
Earlier in the season, Toti was sidelined for five matches due to a hamstring injury, and Keen believes that his absence significantly impacted the team’s balance. *“His loss was deeply felt, especially because having a left-footed defender provides a natural equilibrium in that position. Finding a reliable alternative for him would be crucial.”
Pereira Aware of Defensive Reinforcements Needed
While Wolves made defensive signings in January—bringing in Nasser Djiga and Emmanuel Agbadou—both players are right-footed, leaving Toti Gomes as the squad’s only natural left-footed defender.
Pereira previously acknowledged the tactical importance of a left-footed defender in his system. Speaking in February, he explained, *”Having a left-footed player on the left side is crucial because it changes the way we build up and defend. If a right-footed defender plays on the opposite side, it disrupts the balance and can create issues.”*
As the summer transfer window approaches, it remains to be seen how Wolves will address these squad concerns. With both an attacking void potentially left by Cunha and defensive reinforcements required, Pereira will likely have a busy summer assessing his options and strengthening key areas.
Alious
