Southampton have been dealt a big blow in their chase for Atletico Madrid forward Matheus Cunha, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Saints in trouble...

The Premier League relegation-battlers are seriously struggling for form and new manager Nathan Jones has a real job on his hands to turn their fortunes around.

Southampton are in very real danger of a drop down to the Championship, having lost the joint-most league games this season with only Nottingham Forest conceding more goals.

Jones also appears to be lacking firepower, highlighted by the fact Forest, Wolves, Everton and West Ham are the only sides to score fewer goals than the St. Mary's side.

The Latest: Saints deal Cunha transfer blow...

As such, Southampton have been linked with a move for Cunha to help bolster their attacking options - but reliable transfer journalist Romano has some bad news on this front.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the reporter says Atletico's forward is now closing in a move to English rivals Wolves - dealing an almighty blow to Southampton over landing the Brazilian.

He explained:

“Cunha is a done deal, it’s a loan with an obligation to buy for around €40-50m.

“It’s also done with the player so now it’s time for the medical and to sign the contracts. Many clubs wanted Cunha – Leeds, Everton and Southampton, but he’s going to Wolves.”

The Verdict: Bad news...

Jones could have used a player of Cunha's attacking talent in his ranks.

Despite a regrettable spell in La Liga, the 23-year-old's former coach, Maurizio Jaccobacci, has highlighted the South American's 'very fast' physical attributes and 'excellent' instinct in front of goal.

If Southampton are to avoid the drop, player's of Cunha's ilk could be needed, but it appears the January transfer search for forward upgrades goes on.