Liverpool interested in top-flight striker but price tag raises questions | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Interest in Matheus Cunha – Is He Worth the Price Tag?

Liverpool’s ongoing search for attacking reinforcements has reportedly led them to Matheus Cunha, the Wolves forward who has been one of the Premier League’s standout performers this season. With 14 goals and four assists in all competitions, Cunha has been instrumental in keeping Wolves’ survival hopes alive. But with a £62 million release clause, questions arise over whether Fenway Sports Group (FSG) will sanction such an outlay.

Why Cunha Is on Liverpool’s Radar

Cunha’s emergence as a top-level forward has not gone unnoticed. His intelligence on the ball, pressing ability, and positional awareness have earned him high praise. Micah Richards, a former Manchester City defender and BBC pundit, described him as a player whose “football IQ is absolutely sensational”, further adding that he “always scans where he needs to be and always plays the right pass.”

Photo: IMAGO

Such attributes make Cunha a natural fit for Arne Slot’s system, which demands high energy and adaptability in the final third. Slot himself has spoken highly of the Brazilian, stating:

Given Liverpool’s preference for multi-functional attackers, Cunha’s versatility—capable of leading the line or operating in deeper roles—adds to his appeal.

The Financial Conundrum for FSG

Liverpool’s interest in Cunha is genuine, but the financial aspect remains a major hurdle. Journalist Graeme Bailey told Rousing The Kop:

At £62 million, Cunha is not a budget-friendly acquisition, and with Liverpool likely to strengthen in multiple areas this summer, FSG must weigh the pros and cons of such an investment.

Cunha was linked with Arsenal and Aston Villa in January, but Wolves held firm, securing him on a new deal that ensures a hefty transfer fee if he departs.

Tactical Fit and Potential Impact

Cunha’s high-intensity pressing and ability to create space for teammates make him an attractive option. However, Liverpool already boast a strong attacking unit, including Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota, Cody Gakpo, and Luis Diaz. The challenge would be finding a role where Cunha can thrive without disrupting the current balance.

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His ability to function as a false nine or even a secondary striker could provide Slot with tactical flexibility, especially in games where Liverpool need to unlock deep defensive blocks.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, the prospect of signing Cunha is both exciting and debatable. On one hand, he is a proven Premier League performer, versatile, and intelligent in possession—traits that make him an ideal addition. On the other, his price tag is a major stumbling block, particularly given Liverpool’s other transfer priorities.

Sceptical supporters may argue that spending £62 million on a player who is not an elite-level finisher represents a risk. While Cunha’s movement and link-up play are excellent, Liverpool need a ruthless goalscorer who can take the pressure off Mohamed Salah in key moments.

Additionally, Liverpool’s financial model under FSG has always been strategic, prioritising value-for-money signings. Would Cunha, at his current price, offer the same level of value as past signings like Diogo Jota or Luis Diaz?

There is also the reality that Liverpool need reinforcements in multiple areas, including midfield and defence. Committing a significant chunk of the budget to Cunha could limit the club’s flexibility in strengthening elsewhere.

Ultimately, while Cunha ticks many tactical boxes, Liverpool must decide whether he is worth the outlay—or if their funds would be better spent on a more clinical forward.