Manchester United Target Matheus Cunha as Summer Move Gathers Momentum
Manchester United have stepped up their interest in Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha ahead of what promises to be a pivotal summer transfer window for Ruben Amorim’s rebuilding project at Old Trafford.
The 25-year-old Brazilian has emerged as a prime attacking target following a prolific campaign with Wolves, in which he has registered an impressive 15 Premier League goals in 30 appearances during the 2024/25 season. His form has not only helped Vitor Pereira’s side climb out of early relegation concerns but has also caught the eye of top clubs — with United now firmly in the mix.
A Message Amid Speculation
Amid mounting speculation over his future, Cunha took to Instagram this week with a light-hearted post showing him with several Wolves teammates. Captioned “Joaooooo where are you?” — a playful reference to teammate João Gomes’ absence from the photo — the message seemed designed to maintain focus on the current season rather than fuel transfer gossip. Still, his form and previous comments suggest he could be open to a summer switch.
Earlier this year, Cunha told The Guardian about his ambition to “challenge himself” further, hinting at a possible move without abandoning Wolves mid-season:
“Some things you can’t control, but I couldn’t leave the club in the middle of the season – in a difficult situation – in the relegation zone,” Cunha said in March.
With Wolves now safe and Cunha’s reputation soaring, the summer window presents a more suitable time for both player and club to assess next steps.
Why United Want Cunha
Under new head coach Ruben Amorim, Manchester United are placing a clear emphasis on pressing intensity, versatility, and work rate in the final third. Cunha’s profile fits that mold perfectly.
- Versatility: Capable of playing as a central striker, second forward, or even wide attacker.
- Movement: Intelligent off-the-ball runs and link-up play make him a perfect fit for Amorim’s fluid attacking system.
- Work rate: Known for pressing defenders and helping in transitions — a trait United have sorely lacked in their attack.
United have struggled for consistent goals from their forwards this season, with questions hanging over the long-term roles of Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford. Bringing in a player like Cunha — experienced yet still with room to grow — would inject urgency and consistency into the attack.
Potential Transfer Obstacles
While Wolves are likely to command a hefty fee, possibly upwards of £45 million, United could fund the move through summer outgoings. Players such as Jadon Sancho, Donny van de Beek, and Casemiro are all tipped for exits, potentially freeing up wages and resources for new arrivals.
Convincing Cunha himself may not be too difficult, especially with the opportunity to play European football and work under a progressive coach like Amorim. But United would need to act quickly, as other Premier League clubs and European sides have also been tracking the Brazilian.
The Bigger Picture
This move would form part of a broader overhaul at Manchester United. Amorim is keen on reshaping the squad around younger, dynamic talent with high footballing IQ — and Cunha checks all the boxes.
If United can finalize a deal, they’d be getting a player entering his prime, hungry for a bigger stage, and ready to lead the line in what is hoped to be a much more competitive season in 2025/26.
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