Who is Matheus Nunes? The €50m Sporting star wanted by Liverpool

Suraj Radia

Updated: 21 Jul 2022 19:24 BST
4 min read

Matheus Nunes, Sporting Lisbon, 2021-22 — © ProShots

Sporting CP star Matheus Nunes could be on the move this summer, with the likes of Liverpool interested in his signature.

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As exclusively reported by FootballTransfers last month, the Portuguese international is wanted by a host of Europe's top clubs and has a release clause in his deal of €60 million but it is believed that a bid of €45m plus €5m in add-ons could be accepted.

With the 23-year-old having no shortage of suitors, FootballTransfers takes a deeper look at the ins and outs of the latest talent to potentially move from Portugal to the Premier League.

What position does Matheus Nunes play in?

Nunes is primarily a central midfielder, described as a 'number 8', but he is capable of playing further forward as well as deeper in a double pivot due to his commitment to his defensive responsibilities.

How good is Matheus Nunes?

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola described Nunes as one of the best players in world football when his side came up against Sporting in the Champions League last season.

He has established himself as a regular in Portugal's national team after making his debut last year and has gone on to receive eight caps, scoring once.

Nunes was also named in the Primeira Liga team of the year last season as well as winning the 'midfielder of the month' award twice.

Nunes led Sporting to the Portuguese league title in his first full season at the club after joining in January 2019 from Estoril for less than €1m.

He has played 74 games in the league for Sporting, scoring six times and getting four assists.

While his goal contributions may be low, Nunes is a complete midfielder and his ability to carry the ball from deep has drawn him many admirers.

🇵🇹 Matheus Nunes completed more dribbles (85) than shots, key passes and interceptions combined (75) in the Liga Portugal Bwin last season
— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) July 6, 2022

What clubs are interested in Matheus Nunes?

Along with Chelsea, Man City and Paris Saint-Germain are also believed to have expressed an interest in Nunes.

Wolves have also naturally been linked due to their connection with Jorge Mendes and there are thought to be more than ten clubs monitoring the situation.

Nunes, however, has insisted he is fully committed to Sporting Lisbon, telling Portuguese media that his goal is to fulfil his contract.

"There is no point transferring me. I am happy at Sporting. The Portuguese league is a great league," Nunes said.

However, reports from Portugal suggest Liverpool are ready to start formal negotiations with Sporting over a move for Nunes, with a move potentially an option.