SKY NEWS: Nottingham Forest Outrun Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool in Race for Brazilian Striker — Deal Vaulted at €30m
Nottingham, UK — June 5, 2025
In a stunning move that has sent ripples through the Premier League, Nottingham Forest have emerged victorious in a hotly contested race to sign highly-rated Brazilian striker Matheus Cunha, outpacing football giants Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool.
Sources close to the negotiation confirm that Forest’s deal, reportedly valued at €30 million, has been verbally agreed upon, with final paperwork expected to be completed within days. The striker, currently playing for Atlético Mineiro, had drawn intense interest following a breakout season in the Brasileirão, netting 18 goals and providing 9 assists.
Ambitious Forest Make Their Mark
Forest’s aggressive transfer strategy signals a new era under manager Nuno Espírito Santo, who has made bolstering the club’s attacking options a top priority after narrowly avoiding relegation last season. The club’s scouts had been tracking Cunha for over a year, but accelerated talks in the past two weeks amid rising competition from top-six clubs.
“Nottingham Forest have shown real ambition,” said Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp. “To beat Arsenal, United, and Liverpool to a player of this calibre is a huge statement — not just financially, but in terms of project and vision.”
Why Cunha Chose Forest
Despite lucrative offers from traditional Premier League powerhouses, Cunha was reportedly swayed by Forest’s promise of regular first-team football, a central role in the team’s attack, and a long-term development plan tailored to his strengths.
Speaking through his agent, Cunha said:
> “This is a bold move. Nottingham Forest offered not just a contract, but a vision. I want to grow in the Premier League, and this is the right environment for that.”
The 22-year-old is expected to sign a five-year deal, with medicals scheduled early next week.
Premier League Shake-Up
The move has sparked a fresh debate about the shifting dynamics of English football, as historically mid-table or newly promoted clubs continue to challenge the status quo by investing aggressively and smartly.
With the deal nearly finalized, Nottingham Forest fans can expect an official unveiling soon, likely to coincide with the club’s summer tour preparations.
