‘Arsenal have Matheus Cunha concerns after social media controversy’
Arsenal will have to make a decision about whether to sign Wolves star Matheus Cunha amid ongoing questions about his attitude.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that Mikel Arteta values character just as much as ability.
While the deal is considered a “no-brainer” based on his talent, Arteta is notoriously picky when it comes to which players he wants to work with.
This comes following the forward’s questionable social media activity after he hit out at Wolves fans who had criticised his attitude towards the club.
Brown previously told Football Insider that Cunha’s attitude may put clubs off a move this summer after his red card against Bournemouth in March.
Since then, Cunha has admitted he wants to leave Molineux as he aims to win trophies and play at the highest level, raising frustrations at his current club.
Man United and Liverpool join Arsenal in Matheus Cunha hunt
Arsenal are not the only club to show an interest in the Brazilian after Brown told Football Insider Man United and Liverpool want to sign Cunha.
Now, the former scout who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, has insisted Arsenal will look into Cunha’s character before agreeing a deal.
“It’s something Arsenal will take on board,” he told Football Insider.
“They will be speaking to people behind the scenes to find out what he’s like as a person.
“He’s a very talented player, there’s no doubt about that, he can do things that not a lot of other players can do at this level.
“There are a few clubs who could do with a talented player like that in their side.
“But you have to look at his character and you see certain things from him that raise questions about whether he’s the best to have around.
“A player’s character is just as important as their ability, and I know that’s certainly the case for Mikel Arteta when you look at what he’s done at Arsenal.
“If you were signing his ability, it’s a no-brainer, but Arsenal will have questions about his attitude now.
“It will be up to them to decide whether his talent is enough to overlook the other issues.”
Mikel Arteta’s four-man striker shortlist revealed
While new concerns have been raised about Cunha’s attitude, Arsenal are already considering a number of alternatives to strengthen up top this summer.
Brown told Football Insider on 10 April that Jean-Philippe Mateta, Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko are on Arsenal’s list alongside Cunha.
However, Crystal Palace want to keep Mateta, while Man United are leading the race for Gyokeres as the Gunners’ options could soon become limited.
Arteta wants to strengthen up front but will be selective with his options as they want an elite forward to become their focal point.
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