Matheus Nunes has suited up for Wolves in two games this season.
The reigning Premier League champs, Manchester City, have given a nod of approval in principle to Wolves for a £47.3 million deal to onboard midfielder Matheus Nunes.
While the paperwork isn’t inked just yet, this transfer comes without any extra frills or add-ons. Just last week, City’s initial overture for the Portuguese dynamo was snubbed, as Wolves were reportedly holding out for a chunkier £60 million.
It appears Nunes has been MIA from Wolves’ practice sessions lately, indicating his itch to don sky-blue and play under the tutelage of Pep Guardiola.
Moreover, in a sort of “player exchange program,” Wolves have consented to borrow City’s young English hotshot, Tommy Doyle. The loan deal comes with a £4.3 million transfer option, sweetened by a meaty sell-on clause that could fatten City’s wallet down the road.
These individual bargains materialized after City balked at Wolves’ initial £60 million-plus asking price for Nunes.
Even before Kevin de Bruyne’s hammy went kaput—a mishap that could sideline him for a quarter of a year—City was already scouring the market to spice up their midfield game. Lucas Paqueta of West Ham was on the radar until whispers arose about him being probed by the Football Association for alleged betting infractions.
In the aftermath of Wolves’ Carabao Cup triumph over Blackpool this past Tuesday, Gary O’Neil, the Wolves manager, sounded off that he was banking on Nunes staying put past this Friday’s transfer deadline.
Last summer, Wolves locked in Nunes with a five-year pact, shelling out a record-breaking £38 million to Sporting Lisbon. Nunes flexed his midfield prowess in the latter part of the previous season, steering Wolves clear of the relegation quagmire and securing a 13th place finish.
A Win-Win Scenario? – Analysis
Should this deal cross the finish line, it’s looking like a touchdown for all involved. With Kevin de Bruyne benched due to injury, Guardiola is thirsty for some midfield magic, and Nunes has proved he’s no slouch in dodging the drop zone with Wolves. Sure, he may not have the aerial vision of de Bruyne, but the guy’s got eagle eyes when it comes to exploiting open field.
Wolves, too, seem to be undergoing a facelift, shifting their focus toward a more Anglo-centric squad. With the advent of Matt Hobbs as technical director and Gary O’Neil at the managerial helm, the departure of Nunes signals a new chapter for the club. While we shouldn’t expect a barrage of domestic signings to follow, Doyle’s entry is a compass pointing to the club’s future direction.
Bottom line? Man City’s got lofty ambitions, and Wolves are hitting the refresh button. This swap meet could be the cheat code both teams need to level up this season.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Matheus Nunes to Manchester City transfer
What is the agreed-upon transfer fee for Matheus Nunes to Manchester City?
The clubs have verbally agreed on a £47.3 million deal for the transfer of Matheus Nunes from Wolves to Manchester City.
Is the deal for Matheus Nunes finalized?
No, the deal is not yet formally agreed upon. However, a verbal agreement between Manchester City and Wolves is in place.
Are there any add-ons involved in the Nunes transfer?
No, the deal for Matheus Nunes comes without any additional add-ons or fees.
What was Wolves’ initial valuation for Matheus Nunes?
Wolves initially valued Matheus Nunes at over £60 million but have agreed to a lower amount in the verbal agreement with Manchester City.
Why is Matheus Nunes absent from Wolves’ recent training sessions?
Matheus Nunes has been missing from training as he has made it clear that he wishes to join Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City squad.
Is Tommy Doyle part of the Nunes deal?
No, Tommy Doyle’s loan to Wolves is a separate agreement. Wolves have the option to make the transfer permanent for £4.3 million, which would include a huge sell-on clause for Manchester City.
What led Manchester City to seek new midfield options?
Kevin de Bruyne, a key player for Manchester City, suffered a hamstring injury that could keep him out for up to four months. This accelerated the club’s need for midfield reinforcements.
Was Lucas Paqueta also considered by Manchester City?
Yes, Lucas Paqueta from West Ham was under consideration until it was revealed that he is being investigated by the Football Association for potential betting rule breaches.
What did Wolves’ manager Gary O’Neil say about Nunes’ future?
Gary O’Neil indicated after Wolves’ Carabao Cup win over Blackpool that he expected Matheus Nunes to remain at the club past the current transfer deadline.
How did Matheus Nunes perform last season with Wolves?
Matheus Nunes was instrumental in Wolves’ campaign last season, particularly in the latter half where he played a key role in helping the team avoid relegation and finish 13th in the Premier League.
Who is replacing Matheus Nunes in Wolves’ midfield?
While it’s not a direct replacement, Wolves have agreed to sign City’s young England Under-21 international Tommy Doyle on loan, possibly signaling a shift in their midfield strategy.
More about Matheus Nunes to Manchester City transfer
- Manchester City Official Website
- Wolves Official Website
- Premier League Transfer News
- Kevin de Bruyne Injury Update
- Football Association’s Betting Rules
- Carabao Cup Highlights: Wolves vs Blackpool
- Sporting Lisbon Transfer History
- Gary O’Neil’s Managerial Career
- Tommy Doyle Player Profile
- Lucas Paqueta Investigation News
