Wolves boss Vitor Pereira has told Mikel Arteta that he will have a fight on his hands should Arsenal wish to pursue Matheus Cunha in January.

The 25-year-old has been one of several attackers linked with the Gunners amid speculation the club may search for a new forward in next month’s transfer window. Cunha’s 10 Premier League goals trumps that of any Arsenal player.

Current centre-forward options Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus have only netted a combined nine league goals between them so far this campaign. Arsenal’s January transfer plans are unclear given the club have yet to find a successor to former sporting director Edu, who left his post in November.

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Furthermore, Bukayo Saka’s hamstring surgery, which will sideline him for at least two months, may alter plans. The Gunners are not the only Premier League club linked with Cunha.

Manchester United, against whom Cunha scored in Wolves’ 2-0 Boxing Day win, have been framed as holding interest amid their failing season. However, new Wolves manager Pereira - who has won both of his matches in charge - is eager not to lose his star striker.

"I hope he stays with us for a long time, but I understand that as a special player - he will have opportunities for sure in his career," the coach said of Cunha.

"It is not only about his technique, but his personality. He is special because he can take the ball in a moment of pressure and make magic from nothing... No, of course I do not want [Cunha] to be sold in January."

Arteta has meanwhile addressed Arsenal’s potential January activity. He has left the door open to potential arrivals but could make no guarantees.

The Spaniard said: "Let’s see how we get there, hopefully the squad is going to be in a much healthier position than it is right now, but who knows?

"We are prepared if we need to do something, we’re capable of doing something, but then that transfer window is very tricky and difficult to control. The opportunities are very limited but we’ll be there."