Arsenal transfer target Matheus Cunha is not expected to have a release clause in his new contract with Wolves, according to journalist David Ornstein.

Writing in The Athletic‘s Transfer DealSheet column, Ornstein said there have been “discussions” over some sort of clause in the event of relegation but there is a feeling that the player would leave Molineux regardless if his current team were to drop down into the Championship:

“Matheus Cunha is edging towards signing a new contract with Wolves, which would run for four and a half years with the option of an extra 12 months.”

“There have been discussions over a relegation release clause, but this would be somewhat irrelevant – as he would be expected to leave in the event of Wolves falling out of the Premier League- and it should not prove a stumbling block. There would definitely be no release clause if Wolves are in the top flight.”

Cunha has been linked with several Premier League teams

The Brazilian international has been in good form this season, scoring 10 goals and contributing 4 assists in 19 league appearances for Wolves.

It has prompted speculation about his future, with the likes of Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United having all been mentioned as potential suitors.

Arsenal are seeking a replacement for Saka

With Bukayo Saka set to be sidelined until at least March (and maybe longer) after undergoing surgery on a hamstring injury, there is some urgency to strengthen the attack during the January transfer window, especially after manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that Ethan Nwaneri could also be unavailable for several weeks.

An approach for Botafogo’s Igor Jesus has reportedly been made, while the club hold a strong interest in Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, but the cost of signing the Spaniard, in particular, could prove prohibitive.

Find out who is in Arsenal’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here