NafisaNottingham Forest pushed hard to bring in a striker during the January transfer window.
With the Reds currently holding third place in the Premier League, Evangelos Marinakis was eager to secure a new forward to help ensure Forest’s push for Champions League qualification.
However, top strikers come at a premium. Given Forest’s strong position, the club found itself facing inflated demands, ultimately leading to the window closing without any senior additions.
Yoane Wissa was a key target, but Jamie Redknapp suggested he could cost close to £40 million—an amount Forest were never likely to spend.
Another option was Wolves striker Matheus Cunha. The Brazilian was linked with a move, but instead, he opted to extend his stay, with a £62.5 million release clause set to become active in the summer.
Matheus Cunha sees red as Wolves crash out of FA Cup
This match encapsulated the highs and lows of Matheus Cunha. Wolves mounted a comeback against an in-form Bournemouth, forcing extra time and eventually penalties. However, Cunha saw red in the process.
The forward was sent off by Sam Barrott following an altercation in extra time. He threw a punch at Milos Kerkez, attempted a headbutt, and then seemed ready to take on anyone in his path—including the fourth official—on his way off the field.
Despite this incident, Cunha displayed his quality during the game, making it clear why Forest had him on their radar. He scored the equalizer for Wolves but was unavailable for the penalty shootout, which saw Vitor Pereira’s side fall short of a quarter-final spot.
Forest had been interested in Cunha for his goal-scoring ability, but this moment of indiscipline raises more concerns than confidence about a potential summer move.
Forest should steer clear of Cunha this summer
The Wolves forward is now set to miss several crucial fixtures. A standard three-match suspension is expected, but given the severity of the incident, further punishment could follow.
Cunha has already served a suspension this season, and Forest don’t need a player prone to such setbacks. While his talent is undeniable, his temperament remains a question mark.
Ultimately, Forest never submitted a formal bid for Cunha. With that in mind, it seems some of his suitors are hesitant due to concerns over his attitude.
If the Reds secure European football, signing a new striker will be essential. However, if they are going to invest over £60 million, it should be in a player with fewer disciplinary issues than Cunha appears to have at the moment.
Nafisa
