Matheus Nunes has halted training with Wolverhampton Wanderers in a bid to force a move to Premier League rivals Manchester City, according to The Athletic.
The reigning Premier League champions have been negotiating with Wolves for Nunes as they are keen on acquiring him before the transfer window closes on Friday.
However, their initial bid of €55 million was rebuffed by Wolves, who remain resolute in their stance.
They want £60m, and unless City’s offer meets their valuation, they intend to keep the Portuguese midfielder.
The 25-year-old’s absence from training has not gone unnoticed, and disciplinary repercussions await him at Molineux.
Wolves plan to reintegrate Nunes into their squad after the transfer window unless a suitable agreement is struck before the Friday deadline.
Nunes arrived at Wolves from Sporting Lisbon in a high-profile transfer for around £42m last summer and signed a contract binding him to the club until 2027. There is also the option of a one-year extension.
His journey to the Midlands followed a standout tenure at Sporting, where he earned accolades while making over 100 appearances.
Nunes seamlessly transitioned to life at Wolves, featuring in 41 matches across various competitions.
His potential transfer to Man City stems from the club’s pursuit of midfield reinforcements. It is a necessity exacerbated by their thwarted attempts to sign Lucas Paqueta from West Ham United.
FA investigations into possible betting rule breaches obstructed the Paqueta deal, forcing them to move for other targets.
City’s midfield ranks have been dealt a severe blow with the sidelining of Kevin De Bruyne due to a hamstring injury. He has undergone surgery and will be out for up to four months.
Nunes will hope the clubs can agree a deal, allowing him to join the treble winners.
