Wolves could do something they have only ever achieved once if Cunha does one thing in 2024/25 - opinion

Wolves could soon achieve something they have only done once in the transfer window and it all depends on Matheus Cunha.

Gary O’Neil had a testing first season at Wolves as he took charge of the depleted squad just days before the 2023/24 opener.

Against the odds, the Englishman led his side to a 14th-place finish, recording a five-point improvement on the campaign prior.

Things are heading in the right direction under O’Neil, with many players benefitting from the manager’s arrival, one of which being Matheus Cunha.

The Brazilian became an integral part of the boss’ plans in 2023/24 and could now help Wolves achieve one thing in 2025.

Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

Matheus Cunha consistency in 24/25 could be fundamental to Wolves in 2025

In his first season at Molineux, Cunha had many wondering why the Old Gold had paid £44m to acquire him from Atletico Madrid although, the Brazil international quickly proved doubters wrong.

O’Neil’s influence has morphed the striker who lacked confidence into a forward who is crucial to the way Wolves play.

Over the 2023/24 campaign, Cunha contributed to 22 goals in all competitions, telling of his importance in the manager’s set-up.

Now, the striker finds himself in a situation where he could elevate his game once more, which could lead to Wolves benefitting from his improvement on more than just the pitch.

If the 25-year-old can have a Premier League season as strong as last term in 2024/25, the forward could become one of Wolves’ most valuable assets.

Such development could see the Old Gold have the potential to complete something they rarely do in offloading an expensive signing for a profit.

Wolves have rarely made a profit from a big signing

Manchester United are already speculated to be admirers of Cunha, who is expected to remain at Wolves despite transfer rumours.

If the Old Gold can keep the Brazilian at the club for another season, his transfer value could rocket beyond the £44m they paid for his services in January 2023.

Based on Wolves’ five highest transfers, the Midlands club have only managed to offload one player for a profit, with Matheus Nunes’ departure last summer representing the profitable deal.

Given that Fabio Silva is set to depart for a limited fee this summer, there is a growing importance of Cunha having a successful 2024/25 calendar for the sake of future profit.

The advantage is that the Brazilian already has admirers and is still young, with a positive second season at Molineux having the potential to hand the club a significant financial gain in the future.