Manchester United have officially met the £62.5 million release clause of Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha, finalizing terms after an earlier proposal was turned down. Wolves had initially rejected Manchester United’s attempt to spread the cost of the deal over five years, insisting on a more accelerated payment structure. Manchester United eventually agreed to a revised plan that will see the fee paid in three installments over a two-year period.
The breakthrough in negotiations grants the Red Devils permission to hold direct talks with Cunha and schedule a medical, with the club hopeful of wrapping up the transfer swiftly. The 26-year-old Brazil international is expected to be the first major signing under new manager Ruben Amorim, who is embarking on a significant rebuild after Manchester United’s worst-ever Premier League finish in 15th place.
Cunha’s Rise at Wolves and Emotional Farewell
Cunha joined Wolves from Atlético Madrid in January 2023, initially on loan before making the move permanent. Over the course of 92 appearances, he found the net 33 times, including 15 goals in the just-concluded season. His performances were crucial in helping the Midlands club avoid relegation from the Premier League, earning praise for his clinical finishing and versatility in attack.
In February 2025, Cunha committed to a long-term future at Wolves by signing a new contract, which included the now-activated £62.5 million release clause. However, the final game of the season hinted at a likely departure, as the forward delivered an emotional goodbye to fans and gifted Rolex watches to teammates Joao Gomes and Andre, signaling the end of his journey with Wolves.
Cunha Set for No. 10 Role as Rashford Faces Uncertain Future
At Old Trafford, Cunha is expected to take on the iconic No. 10 shirt, a jersey last worn by Marcus Rashford. The England international is reportedly nearing an exit, with growing speculation about a summer move away from Manchester United amid declining form and dressing room tensions. Rashford’s departure could free up both space and wages for Cunha to become a central figure in United’s revamped attack.
The transfer could also mark a broader shift in squad policy, as reports suggest Manchester United are willing to entertain offers for rising Argentine star Alejandro Garnacho, with a £60 million valuation set for the 20-year-old winger. Amorim’s new regime appears focused on reshaping the squad’s mentality and tactical identity ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Manchester United’s Ambitious Rebuild: Cunha First, More to Follow
Matheus Cunha’s arrival is the opening chapter in what promises to be a busy transfer window for Manchester United. With the club aiming to bounce back from a historically poor campaign, Amorim and the board are preparing to invest close to £150 million in new talent. Talks are ongoing with Brentford for Bryan Mbeumo, whose valuation stands at £50 million.
This summer marks the start of a new footballing philosophy under Amorim, with emphasis on high-pressing, aggressive play, and tactical discipline. Cunha’s technical flair and eye for goal align with Manchester United’s ambitions, although concerns remain about his ability to adapt to the physical and mental demands of Amorim’s approach.
Concerns Over Work Rate Cast a Shadow
Despite the excitement surrounding his arrival, not all Manchester United fans are convinced Cunha is the right fit. Opta statistics from the 2024/25 season show that the Brazilian spends a staggering 77.6% of his time on the pitch walking—more than any other Premier League player. This has raised questions about his suitability for Amorim’s high-energy system, which famously demands players to “run like mad dogs.”
Analysts and supporters alike will be watching closely to see whether Cunha can adjust his playing style to meet the expectations at Old Trafford. While his goal-scoring ability is proven, United’s new era will require more than individual brilliance—it will demand relentless commitment, intensity, and discipline from every player on the pitch. Whether Cunha can rise to that challenge remains to be seen.
