If a report from Relevo is believed to be true, Leeds United have joined the race for Matheus Cunha But the Whites are not alone in the race with three other Premier League outfits Wolves, Aston Villa and Everton keeping close eyes on the Atletico Madrid centre-forward.
The 23-year-old Selecao international joined the Rojiblancos last summer from Hertha BSC. A fee of around £20m was enough to secure his services from Bundesliga, but his lacklustre performance of late could see him parting ways with Diego Simeone in favour of Premier League football. He is yet to find the net this season in 17 appearances across competitions and his valuation might plummet further unless he stays beyond January and improves his form.
Manchester United knocked on Atletico’s door back in the summer window. They were keen on Cunha to bolster themselves high up the pitch, but the attacker snubbed the offer in order to fight for his place at his current club. Although he scored 6 league goals last season in 29 appearances, things have not gone as per plan so far this campaign.
The Brazilian spent his youth years with Coritiba before leaving for Swiss side Sion to experience senior football. His impressive run of form earned him a transfer to RB Leipzig a year later, but the striking ace was eventually allowed to join Hertha in January 2020. While he is expected to flourish more in the coming days, a winter move could help him rebuild his confidence with assured gametime.
Why Leeds United Must Tie Him Down
Leeds United are undergoing a transition under Jesse Marsch. They have overcome a dreadful start and showcased signs of improvement before the World Cup break. But the gaffer must strengthen the squad to avoid another relegation fight, particularly after surviving the same towards the closure of the previous term.
Patrick Bamford was majestic in front of the goal during Marcelo Bielsa’s regime. However, he has lost his scoring touch for around a year due to form and fitness reasons and the manager is now relying on Rodrigo as a ‘number 9’ who is more effective in a withdrawn role.
Having said that, the other Premier League clubs are also in desperate need of a centre-forward. Neil Maupay is struggling at Everton, whereas 34-year-old Diego Costa is not a solution to their crisis upfront. Aston Villa are re-energized after Unai Emery’s appointment and his connections in Spain might complicate Leeds United’s chase. It remains to be seen whether the Yorkshire giants step up their interest before it gets too late.
