Matheus Nunes has reportedly gone on strike at Wolverhampton Wanderers to try to force a transfer to Manchester City.
In his first campaign at Molineux, the midfielder showed rare moments of quality during an average 2022-23, although his winning strike against Chelsea in April was one of the goals of the Premier League season.
However, the Portugal international failed to justify his £38m price tag and hopes have been high that he will switch into a more familiar role in the middle to replace Ruben Neves.
Instead, Nunes is wanted by Manchester City with long-term admirer Pep Guardiola eager to sign another midfielder after the injury to Kevin De Bruyne.
As it stands, Wolves have rejected at least two offers for the player, who is naturally keen to make the switch to the English and European champions.
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Wolves have allegedly turned down a proposal in the region of €60m (£51.5m) and are insistent that they will not cash in on the 25-year-old until they receive at least £60m.
Although it may materialise that the two clubs eventually reach a compromise on a proposal in that region, it appears that Nunes has taken it upon himself to move from Molineux as soon as possible.
According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Nunes has stopped training with Wolves and does not intend to return.
Nunes is also said to have formally told club officials of his desire to move to Man City, something which will seemingly only be facilitated if an improved bid is made.
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Nevertheless, Wolves are allegedly ready to stand firm with disciplinary procedures due to be opened if a resolution cannot be found over the coming days.
The hope would be that Nunes would be reintegrated back into Gary O'Neil's plans, even though Wolves were able to get their first win of the season on the board against Everton without a suspended Nunes in the team.
If Wolves do agree to a sale, the expectation is that they will use any funds to sign at least one new defender and central midfielder, while a centre-forward is also allegedly on O'Neil's radar.
Wolves face Blackpool in the EFL Cup second round on Tuesday night, but Nunes is highly unlikely to be considered for selection.
Darren Plant
