Why a Cristiano Ronaldo phone call almost stopped Wolves signing Matheus Cunha replacement Jhon Arias

After losing Cunha to Manchester United this summer, Wolves have agreed to sign Arias from Fluminense. The 27-year-old is seen as a direct replacement for Cunha at Molineux but was in demand before Wolves swooped. Former Colombian international Faustino Asprilla has told ESPN Colombia that Cristiano Ronaldo wanted Arias to join him at Al-Nassr and even made a phone call to the winger to try and tempt him to Saudi Arabia.

"Cristiano Ronaldo called Jhon Arias to go to Saudi Arabia before signing with Wolverhampton," Asprilla revealed.

Yet Ronaldo's efforts have been in vain. Arias decided against a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League and can instead look forward to life in the Premier League with Vitor Pereira's side instead.

Arias explained his decision to join Wolves in a press conference to announce his departure from Fluminense. He told reporters: "I've always expressed my dream of reaching a major European league, and this time, God has given me an opportunity that's good for everyone, it's good for me, it's good for the club, and I'm having this chance to fulfill my dream of reaching the best league in the world.

"Until my last day, I honored this badge and this jersey, which are above anything, anyone. But I always dreamed of this, just as I believe everyone has a dream—every fan, every person has a dream, regardless of what it is. I always hoped for this dream, and thank God, today I have the opportunity to leave a lasting mark on the club, something very positive for Fluminense, and to achieve my dream of playing in the Premier League."

Ronaldo is currently looking forward to a new season with Al-Nassr after signing a two-year contract extension with the club, while Wolves are also in pre-season ahead of an opening Premier League fixture against Manchester City on August 16.