Arsenal Eyeing Matheus Cunha: Berta’s Griezmann-esque Signing

Arsenal have had a challenging season this year. While they are still in the Champions League, their chances of winning the Premier League title are very slim.

However, there’s optimism for the future. Arsenal are likely to have fewer injury problems next season, and Andrea Berta, formerly of Atlético Madrid, is expected to join as Sporting Director. He’s tasked with securing significant signings this summer.

Reports suggest that Berta’s main target is a dynamic attacker from the Premier League, who could become Arsenal’s equivalent to Antoine Griezmann.

Berta Aims to Bring High-Profile Forward to Arsenal

Arsenal have been consistently linked with various strikers in recent transfer windows. Last summer, Benjamin Sesko was a target, but he chose to stay at RB Leipzig and signed a new contract.

In January, Newcastle’s Alexander Isak was mentioned, but his £150m price tag is a major obstacle. So, who will Arsenal target next?

According to reports, Andrea Berta has identified Matheus Cunha as his primary target for the summer transfer window.

The report indicates that while many Premier League clubs are interested in the Brazilian star, Arsenal are in a leading position to sign him. This is largely due to Berta’s existing relationship with Cunha from when he signed him for Atlético Madrid.

Although the potential transfer fee isn’t mentioned in the report, sources indicate that Matheus Cunha has a release clause of around £62m in his new contract with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Acquiring Cunha would be a significant investment, but his considerable talent makes him a worthwhile target, especially if he can replicate Griezmann’s impact for Arsenal.

Why Cunha Could Be Arsenal’s Griezmann

Before discussing why Cunha would be a great signing generally, let’s explore why he’s being compared to Antoine Griezmann.

The comparison originates from statistical analysis that identifies players with similar profiles in Europe’s top leagues. This analysis found Griezmann to be the most statistically comparable player to Cunha.

This comparison is based on similar performance metrics, including expected goals plus assists, goals per shot, key passes, crosses into the penalty area, clearances, and goal-creating actions, all calculated per 90 minutes of play.

Beyond statistical similarities and their shared history with Berta, Cunha’s versatility further strengthens the comparison to Griezmann.

Another key trait Cunha shares with Griezmann is his ability to play in multiple positions.

Since joining Wolves, the 25-year-old Cunha has played in various roles: 39 times as a central striker, 21 as an attacking midfielder, 12 as a second striker, 3 as a left winger, and once as a right winger.

Furthermore, as demonstrated in matches against top teams, Cunha is capable of creating impactful plays single-handedly.