Wolverhampton have signed Colombian winger Jhon Arias from Fluminense as a direct replacement for Matheus Cunha. However, before the deal was finalized, Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly tried to intervene and sway the player's decision.

The Portuguese star had his eye on him

After losing Cunha to Manchester United this summer, Wolves moved quickly to secure Arias, who was on the radar of several clubs. Former Colombian international Faustino Asprilla told ESPN Colombia that Cristiano Ronaldo personally called Arias in an attempt to lure him to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.

CR7 tried to tempt him with the Saudi Pro League

“Cristiano Ronaldo called Jhon Arias to try to convince him to come to Saudi Arabia before he signed with Wolverhampton,” Asprilla revealed.
However, Ronaldo’s efforts proved unsuccessful. Arias turned down the lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League and instead chose to pursue his dream of playing in one of Europe’s top leagues.

Arias chose to join the Wolves

In a press conference announcing his departure from Fluminense, Arias explained his decision:

“I’ve always expressed my dream of playing in a top European league, and this time God has given me an opportunity that is good for everyone for me, for the club. I'm fulfilling my dream of playing in the best league in the world.

Until my last day, I honored this badge and this shirt, which are above everything else. But I always dreamed of this, just like everyone has a dream. Today, I have the chance to leave a lasting mark on the club and to make my dream of playing in the Premier League come true.”

Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, is preparing for a new season with Al-Nassr after signing a two-year contract extension with the club. Wolves are also in preseason training ahead of their Premier League opener against Manchester City on August 16.

There’s no doubt Arias is now facing the biggest challenge of his career in European football. He has the talent and the quality but did he make the right decision?