Manchester United have finalized personal terms with Wolves forward Matheus Cunha, planning to activate his £62.5m release clause, with the transfer expected to be completed next week.
Manchester United are closing in on their first major signing of the summer, with a deal for Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha nearing completion. The Red Devils have reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms with the Brazilian attacker, who has been one of the standout performers in the Premier League over the past season. United are expected to trigger Cunha’s £62.5 million release clause, with the move potentially finalized before the end of next week, provided there are no last-minute obstacles.
This potential signing is seen as a major move by new manager Ruben Amorim, who is eager to overhaul the squad following a frustrating 2024/25 season that saw United finish outside the Champions League spots and struggle for goals, scoring just 42 times in the league. Bringing Cunha on board would be the first step in Amorim’s vision for a more dynamic and aggressive Manchester United side.
At 25, Cunha has impressed consistently at Wolves with his pace, creativity, and sharp eye for goal. Despite Wolves’ inconsistencies, he managed to record double digits in both goals and assists, underlining his quality and reliability in the final third. His ability to operate across the front line—be it as a striker, second forward, or winger—makes him an ideal fit for Amorim’s tactical system, which emphasizes versatility, quick transitions, and pressing from the front.
United’s attack, which often lacked cohesion last season, could benefit greatly from Cunha’s presence. He is expected to complement players like Rasmus Højlund, who showed potential but often lacked support. With Cunha in the mix, United’s frontline could become far more unpredictable and potent.
Cunha himself is reportedly eager to make the move, viewing it as a significant step forward in his career. The opportunity to compete at the top level of European football with Manchester United is believed to be a major draw for the Brazilian, particularly with the potential return to Champions League football on the horizon.
Still, financial realities loom large. United are operating under the constraints of Profitability and Sustainability Rules, and this big-money move could necessitate the departure of several high-earning players. Antony, who has impressed while on loan at Real Betis, and Marcus Rashford, currently at Aston Villa, are among those who may be sold to help balance the books and create room for further signings. Other big names like Casemiro and Jadon Sancho are also being linked with exits, particularly to clubs in Saudi Arabia and elsewhere.
Despite the hefty price tag, United’s top brass reportedly view Cunha as a smart investment. With his Premier League experience, age, and adaptability, they see him as a relatively low-risk addition who could lead the line for years to come. Fans seem to share the optimism, with many expressing their excitement online and imagining attacking trios featuring Cunha, Højlund, and Alejandro Garnacho.
Amorim is said to have played a central role in identifying Cunha as a key target. Known for his work at Sporting CP developing fast, fluid attackers, Amorim’s footballing philosophy aligns well with the Brazilian’s playing style. His influence in shaping the squad is already becoming evident, signaling a shift in United’s approach under INEOS and newly appointed sporting director Dan Ashworth, with a stronger emphasis on alignment between recruitment and tactical identity.
United reportedly beat competition from the likes of Arsenal and Atletico Madrid to secure Cunha’s services, acting swiftly to agree personal terms and commit to the release clause—an uncharacteristically decisive move that could signal a change in how the club handles transfers going forward. This deal is also expected to impact United’s broader summer plans, with attention soon turning to midfield and defensive reinforcements. Targets such as Joao Neves, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro, and Jarrad Branthwaite are all believed to be on the radar.
As the final stages of the transfer—medical tests, image rights, and official announcements—are ironed out, there’s a growing sense that United are entering a new chapter. With Matheus Cunha possibly donning the red shirt before the club’s pre-season tour kicks off in July, supporters may finally have a reason to believe that a genuine rebuild, guided by clear direction and purpose, is underway.
