Manchester United Nears Deal to Sign Matheus Cunha from Wolves
Manchester United is closing in on a deal to sign Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers, according to multiple reports. The 25-year-old, who joined Wolves in January 2023, has emerged as a top target for United as they seek to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the 2024-25 season. The transfer, estimated at £40-50 million, could be finalized within days.
Cunha’s Rise and Impact at Wolves
Since arriving at Molineux from Atlético Madrid, Cunha has been a revelation, scoring 12 goals and providing 7 assists in 36 Premier League appearances last season. His versatility—capable of playing as a center forward, second striker, or winger—makes him an attractive option for United’s fluid attacking system.
“Cunha brings exactly what United lack: creativity, work rate, and the ability to link play between midfield and attack,” said former Premier League striker turned analyst Chris Sutton. “His numbers don’t tell the full story—he’s the kind of player who makes others around him better.”
Key statistics from Cunha’s 2023-24 campaign:
- 83% pass accuracy in the final third (top 10% among PL forwards)
- 2.3 key passes per 90 minutes
- 4.7 successful dribbles per match
- Wolves averaged 1.8 goals/game with him starting vs. 0.9 without
Why Manchester United Are Pursuing Cunha
United’s interest stems from several factors:
- Age profile: At 25, Cunha fits the club’s strategy of signing players entering their prime
- Tactical flexibility: Can play across all front-three positions
- Premier League proven: Already adapted to English football’s physical demands
- Cost-effective: More affordable than other targets like Victor Osimhen
However, some analysts question whether Cunha is the elite finisher United desperately need. “He’s excellent between the lines but only converted 14% of his big chances last season,” noted Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher. “If United want to challenge City and Arsenal, they may still need a more clinical number nine.”
Wolves’ Perspective and Potential Replacements
Wolves, facing Financial Fair Play pressures, appear willing to sell at the right price. Manager Gary O’Neil has reportedly identified replacements, including:
- Che Adams (Southampton)
- Boulaye Dia (Salernitana)
- Jonathan David (Lille)
“Every player has his price, especially when operating at our financial level,” a Wolves club source told The Athletic. “The funds could allow us to strengthen multiple positions.”
What Cunha Would Bring to Old Trafford
If completed, the signing would address several United weaknesses:
- Pressing: Cunha ranks in the 92nd percentile for forwards in pressures applied
- Chance creation: His 2.3 key passes/90 would have led United last season
- Dribbling: Offers the directness missing since Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure
Tactically, Cunha could form an intriguing partnership with Rasmus Højlund, allowing the Dane to focus on penalty box movement while Cunha drops deeper to link play. This dual-threat approach mirrors systems used successfully by rivals like Arsenal (Saka-Havertz) and Liverpool (Díaz-Núñez).
Broader Implications for United’s Transfer Strategy
This potential acquisition signals a shift in United’s recruitment under new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe:
- Focus on players entering their prime rather than established stars
- Greater emphasis on tactical versatility
- Willingness to shop within the Premier League despite premium costs
The deal could also impact other transfer plans. With Cunha arriving, United may cool interest in Michael Olise or prioritize a central defender instead. The club remains linked with Jarrad Branthwaite and Matthijs de Ligt as they seek to rebuild their backline.
Fan and Expert Reactions
Reception to the news has been mixed:
- Supporters: 68% positive in a Manchester Evening News poll (2,500+ votes)
- Analysts: Praise the profile but question if it’s enough to close the gap to top rivals
- Bookmakers: United’s title odds shortened from 16/1 to 12/1 after rumors emerged
“He’s not the 30-goal striker fans dream about, but Cunha makes United better immediately,” argued ESPN FC’s Mark Ogden. “In today’s market, £50 million for a player of his quality is almost reasonable.”
Next Steps in the Transfer Process
With personal terms reportedly agreed, the clubs are finalizing:
- Payment structure (likely installments rather than lump sum)
- Performance-based add-ons
- Medical examination schedule
Barring last-minute hitches, Cunha could join United’s preseason tour in the United States, where Erik ten Hag will integrate him into the squad. The Brazilian’s work permit shouldn’t be an issue given his international caps and Premier League experience.
For Wolves, attention turns to reinvesting the windfall. The club has already secured 18-year-old Portuguese winger Rodrigo Gomes this summer and may accelerate moves for additional attacking reinforcements.
Long-Term Outlook for Both Clubs
This transfer could represent a pivotal moment for both organizations:
- Manchester United: Signals intent to build a more dynamic, cohesive attack
- Wolverhampton: Demonstrates their ability to develop and profit from talented players
As the Premier League’s financial divide grows, such deals between mid-table and elite clubs may become increasingly common. For United supporters, the hope is that Cunha follows in the footsteps of successful imports like Bruno Fernandes rather than expensive flops like Antony.
The coming days will reveal whether this transfer goes through as expected. One thing is certain: in the high-stakes world of Premier League football, bold moves like this can define seasons before they even begin. Follow our live transfer blog for breaking updates on this developing story.
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