Manchester United are poised to make a splash in the summer transfer window, closing in on the acquisition of Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers. With personal terms reportedly agreed, the club now prepares to trigger the £62.5 million release clause in Cunha’s contract. Unless the deal collapses unexpectedly, all signs point to its completion within the coming week, a development that would mark United’s first major move under new manager Ruben Amorim.
The Red Devils are desperate for a fresh start after a dismal 2024/25 campaign, finishing outside the Champions League spots and struggling for goals. Amorim, stepping into a high-pressure role, sees Cunha as a foundational piece in reshaping the squad. A player already familiar with the rigors of English football, Cunha’s arrival would be the first decisive strike in an overhaul meant to restore pride at Old Trafford.
At 25, Cunha is entering his prime and has already proven his worth in the Premier League. His sharp acceleration, technical finesse, and knack for both scoring and assisting have made him a bright spot in a Wolves side that lacked consistency. Despite the chaos around him, Cunha managed to hit double digits in goals and assists, making him a rare gem in a struggling team.
What sets Cunha apart is his adaptability. He’s not just a striker—he can shift out wide or operate behind the front man, offering Amorim the kind of tactical flexibility he craves. Amorim’s blueprint demands fluidity, high pressing, and positional interchange, and Cunha ticks every box. He’s not just a plug-in solution—he’s a tailor-made weapon for the kind of football Amorim is trying to craft.
This deal could also ease the burden on Rasmus Højlund, who showed promise but often carried the attack alone. With Cunha joining the fray, Højlund could receive more service and space, making United’s forward line less predictable and more potent. Fans are already dreaming of an attack led by Cunha, Højlund, and the explosive Garnacho, with Bruno Fernandes pulling the strings behind them.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. The club is still tethered to the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules. To balance the books after Cunha’s big-money move, United may be forced to offload high earners. Players like Marcus Rashford and Antony—both out on loan—could be sacrificed to free up wages and fund further reinforcements in midfield and defense.
Amorim’s fingerprints are all over this move. Known for nurturing high-energy, intelligent attackers at Sporting Lisbon, the Portuguese coach appears to have handpicked Cunha to spearhead his new regime. With increased control over recruitment under the INEOS project, Amorim is laying the foundations for a side built not just on talent, but on tactical harmony and shared identity.
Competition for Cunha’s signature was fierce, with both Arsenal and Atletico Madrid keeping tabs on him. But United moved swiftly—decisively—proving they still have pulling power when ambition is matched by action. The deal, if completed smoothly, could catalyze a broader rebuild that’s been long overdue. For a fan base starving for progress, Cunha’s signing might just be the first real sign that United are done talking—and finally ready to compete again.
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