Manchester United’s summer plans appear to be gathering pace, with Wolves’ Matheus Cunha emerging as a major target for the forward line under new head coach Ruben Amorim. According to Ben Jacobs, the Brazilian’s representatives are due in England for direct talks, with Old Trafford now a serious destination after Arsenal cooled their interest in the £62.5m-rated attacker.
“Cunha’s agent set for talks in England. Man Utd is of appeal to Cunha,” Jacobs confirmed via X. “Lack of Champions League football, should United not win the Europa League, won’t necessarily count against suitors.” This statement underlines the increasing attractiveness of Manchester United as a destination for top talent, even amidst uncertainties regarding their European football status. The prospect of playing for a club with such a storied history and massive fanbase can often outweigh potential setbacks in immediate competition.
Arsenal were thought to be frontrunners for Cunha, especially following the appointment of Andrea Berta as sporting director—having previously signed Cunha during his time at Atlético Madrid. Yet as reported by Correio da Manha, Berta is instead prioritising a deal for Sporting CP forward Viktor Gyökeres, effectively removing Arsenal from contention. The shifting priorities within rival clubs create a significant opportunity for United, allowing them to position themselves favorably in the race for Cunha’s signature.
This has created a clear opening for Manchester United to make a decisive move. talkSPORT reports that “initial contact” between Cunha’s representatives and United has already been made, and further negotiations are expected to follow imminently. Such swift action is crucial in the current competitive landscape of the transfer market, where hesitation can easily allow other clubs to swoop in and secure a desired player.
Cunha’s strengths align naturally with Amorim’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. With 13 goals and 4 assists in 26 Premier League appearances this season, the 25-year-old has carried Wolves through a difficult campaign, showing a blend of sharp movement, explosive ball-carrying, and high work rate. His ability to adapt and thrive in challenging situations speaks volumes about his potential and work ethic, characteristics that could be beneficial to United’s ambitions moving forward.
United are keen to reinforce their attacking depth behind the striker, with Cunha seen as ideal for the inside forward roles. His ability to link play and make dynamic runs into the box makes him a compelling fit for the tactical shift expected under Amorim. The integration of a player with his skill set could indeed enhance United’s attacking versatility, allowing for more fluid and unpredictable offensive plays that can capitalize on defensive weaknesses.
Cunha himself recently admitted his ambition to leave Molineux in the summer: “Now, we’re close to achieving our goal [of staying up]. But I’ve made it clear that I need to take the next step. I want to fight for titles, for big things. I have potential.” This candid acknowledgment indicates not only his aspirations but also a desire for progression that aligns perfectly with the objectives of a club like Manchester United.
Despite a new contract signed in February, Cunha’s deal includes a release clause of £62.5m—an amount that could suit multiple Premier League clubs looking for immediate impact and long-term value. Manchester City retain a sell-on clause, adding complexity, but not enough to deter the growing queue of suitors. The financial aspects of this deal highlight the increasing market value of players who could significantly enhance squad performance.
Chelsea and Newcastle have also been monitoring Cunha’s situation. But while Arsenal appear to have moved on, United’s early interest and tactical need could give them a critical edge. The ability to capitalize on a changing transfer landscape could define United’s success in securing Cunha, presenting a vital step in their rebuilding strategy.
United’s path to Champions League football still hangs in the balance. A Europa League title would secure their spot, but even without that security, Cunha is not deterred. “Man Utd is of appeal to Cunha,” Jacobs reiterated, with the lack of Champions League football “not necessarily” being a deal-breaker. As the club navigates through this decisive period, their ability to attract high-caliber players speaks to their enduring allure and the potential resurgence under Amorim.
In a window where clarity and commitment from top targets will be paramount, Cunha’s openness to the United project—even without European football—sends a clear message: he’s ready to step into the spotlight, and United may just be the right stage. His willingness to join Manchester United, despite lingering uncertainties, underscores a bold ambition that aligns perfectly with the ethos of a club regarded as one of the giants in European football. As the transfer window progresses, it will be intriguing to see whether Cunha takes that next step in his promising career, potentially ushering in a new era of success for Manchester United.
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