Arsenal transfer target banned ahead of January window in Premier League and FA Cup twist

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As Arsenal enter the January transfer window, several different factors could impact the amount of business that they do.

While it’s clear that a new forward is on the radar, anyone who is the first choice may be a struggle to get due to teams usually being unwilling to sell.

On top of that, complying with PSR [Profit and Sustainability Regulations] will be key, so making sure that there is no overspending will also be on their mind.

It limits the deals Arsenal could do, though Mikel Arteta will be keen to get some moves over the line if they make sense.

However, links with one forward may have taken a slight twist after a recent ban has been placed on the rumoured target.

• READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Arsenal’s January 2025 transfer window including deadline day date

Arsenal transfer target Matheus Cunha banned for two matches

Arsenal are eyeing a transfer for Matheus Cunha, the Wolves star who has helped drag his team out of the relegation zone in recent weeks.

The Brazilian has shown clear quality and versatility, scoring and assisting regularly while featuring on the wing, as a number ten or even as the centre-forward.

Cunha is the type of player that big teams will have their eyes on if Wolves continue to struggle, though they may be reluctant to do business in January.

If any move is to be pushed through in the opening weeks of the transfer window, there may be a huge twist in store for pursuing clubs.

That’s because it has been confirmed that Cunha will be banned for two matches by the FA due to misconduct.

Following a clash with Ipswich earlier this season, the forward was pictured in an altercation, leading to the ban and a fine of £80,000.

It means the forward is set to miss some big upcoming games and could scupper any faint chances of an early deal in the window.

• READ MORE: Arsenal make ‘contact’ to sign sensational striker amid Liverpool and Chelsea interest

What games will Matheus Cunha be banned for?

If, as expected, Cunha is still a Wolves player in the upcoming week or so, then he will miss one Premier League match and one FA Cup clash for the side.

Games against Nottingham Forest and Bristol City await for the Old Gold, though neither may be seen as a priority for having the striker available.

The Brazilian is set to return against Newcastle before tough matches against Chelsea and then Arsenal.

If he were to make the switch to the Gunners in the first week of the window, then he would likely miss matches against Brighton in the Premier League and Manchester United in the FA Cup.

The reality is though, if there is any slim chance of a move going through, it would likely come later in the window.