Man City boost as top target goes on strike to force transfer but could face ‘disciplinary action’

Manchester City have been handed a boost in pursuit of Matheus Nunes as the Wolves midfielder is now trying to force a move through himself.

Pep Guardiola is desperate to add to his midfield options between now and the end of the transfer window and Nunes is currently seen as their top target.

While their initial bid of £47m was rejected, Man City are said to be growing in confidence in striking a deal before the end of the window.

Nunes joined Wolves last summer for a fee of £38m from Sporting. After a successful debut season in England, his transfer value has risen considerably since then.

The 25-year-old is contracted with Wolves until the summer of 2027, with the option of an extra year in his contract.

While Wolves have had to sell players this summer due to FFP, they are in a strong position to negotiate with Man City as Nunes is tied down to a long-term deal.

Nunes is seemingly keen on the move to Manchester and he is now attempting to force the deal through by going on strike.

According to David Ornstein, the midfielder has stopped training with Wolves and has expressed his wish to join the Premier League champions this summer.

Nunes could therefore face ‘disciplinary action’ and be reintegrated back into the squad if a deal isn’t agreed with Man City.

Wolves have been tipped to stand firm in their negotiations with Man City, but time will tell if this decision by Nunes forces through a move.

Gary O’Neil briefly discussed the transfer speculation surrounding Nunes prior to Wolves beating Everton at the weekend.

“He’s an important player for us who has four or five years left on his contract, but we rejected a bid because we didn’t feel it met our valuation of what Matheus is worth to us,” O’Neil told the club website.

“I don’t know the details of the bid and where it’s at, but all I know is that our valuation of Matheus wasn’t met. I’m head coach. I coach the team and the players who are available, and Matheus isn’t available this weekend.”

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