Everton are on the verge of losing out to Atletico Madrid in the pursuit of 22-year-old Brazilian Matheus Cunha of Hertha Berlin.
Reliable journalist Max Bielefeld has offered an update on the future of Matheus Cunha. The 22-year-old Hertha Berlin forward has emerged as a hot prospect in the market following his blazing performances in the Bundesliga. And after months of speculations, it appears he could be on the verge of a move to Atletico Madrid.
Hertha have already reached an agreement with the Spanish champions on a deal worth around €30 million excluding bonuses. Premier League side Everton had tried to hijack the deal in the last minute, but their attempts were rebuffed by the player, who favours a move to the Spanish capital.
Very few can blame Cunha over his desire to join Atletico Madrid this summer. Los Colchoneros are currently the reigning champions of Spanish football but are importantly undergoing a transitional fee that has opened multiple avenues for players like him to make a name for themselves at one of the biggest clubs in world football.
Formerly of RB Leipzig, Cunha is considered as one of the potential future assets of Brazilian football. The 22-year-old has been a huge success in the Bundesliga, especially at Hertha, with the forward notably being involved in 12 goals in the league last season.
His imminent move to Atletico Madrid could thus serve as a major blow for Everton. Much like Atleti, the Toffees are on the hunt for attacking reinforcements, especially with their star player James Rodriguez facing an uncertain future at the club, after the departure of Carlo Ancelotti.
Cunha may have been an ideal direct replacement as he prefers to operate in the number ten role, just behind the main striker. His explosive style of play coupled with his trickery makes the Brazilian an ideal partner for the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and his compatriot Richarlison.
However, with Atletico Madrid prevailing in the pursuit, Everton must set their sights on other alternatives. One of the main candidates is Joaquin Correa of Lazio, with the Merseyside giants even making a proposal recently to sign the Argentine international.
Aside from Correa, Everton have also expressed interest in signing Weston McKennie, though they are set to face stiff competition from Tottenham Hotspur, in the pursuit of the Juventus ace. As for Cunha, he is set to join Atletico Madrid this summer.
