Cunha to Newcastle? - The hidden factors aiding Paul Mitchell's bid for Wolves star

As if the price of not obtaining Champions League football could be any more severe, it seems top-level European football could be vital to Newcastle's chances of signing a reported 'top target' this season.

With Liverpool almost certain to be announced as league winners and the bottom three practically sealed, all eyes will be on the battle of the Champions League places.

Newcastle, Chelsea, Manchester City, Aston Villa, and - strangely enough - Nottingham Forest. Only two places for five teams.

Reaching the competition would easily round off the Magpies' best season under Eddie Howe and maybe their best of the Premier League era. With the League Cup in the bank,  Howe has the chance to do something remarkable before all eyes turn to summer transfer plans.

Hidden factors that could boost Cunha hopes

It's early day as we're still a few months from the window opening, but Craig Hope of the Daily Mail announced on Thursday night that Wolves attacker Matheus Cunha is one of the major targets for Newcastle in the forthcoming window.

The 25-year-old is thought to have several admirers within St. James' Park, with the club attracted by his versatility - it's believed he could up top, down both flanks and even at No.8 in the current system - and the X-factor he could offer in the final third.

Cunha has been linked to Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool, and Nottingham Forest, being a player in demand as a £62.5m release clause hands over his head this summer.

But what factors, aside from the offer of Champions League football, could be key to landing the Brazilian?

Well, for starters, the South American is represented by the same agency that look after Bruno Guimarares. A strong relationship already exists between his representatives and the club, which can do no harm.

Then there is Paul Mitchell, who played a pivotal role in bringing Cunha to RB Leipzig during his time in Germany as their head of scouting. Again, this may only serve to help us.

Last but not least, it's not hidden but it's well known that Bruno and Joelinton absolutely love life on Tyneside; both on and off the pitch. They are international teammates of Cunha's and were pictured relaxing with the Wolves star during the last break.

If Cunha went to both for their thoughts on Newcastle, Eddie Howe, the fans and what it's like to play for this club, they'd give nothing but rave reviews and help him settle into the area and squad.