Matheus Cunha has officially become Manchester United’s first major signing of the summer, marking a significant step in the club’s rebuild under manager Ruben Amorim. The 26-year-old Brazilian forward, previously a standout at Wolverhampton Wanderers, sealed his £62.5 million move after United triggered his release clause. This transfer, confirmed just hours ago, has sparked excitement among fans eager to see how Cunha’s flair and goal-scoring prowess will transform a struggling United attack. With the Premier League season looming, this move signals United’s intent to climb back into contention.
Why Matheus Cunha Chose United
Cunha’s decision to join Manchester United, despite their lack of Champions League football, speaks volumes about the club’s enduring pull. The Brazilian, who scored 15 Premier League goals for Wolves in the 2024-25 season, expressed his desire to “take the next step” and compete for titles. United’s storied history and Amorim’s vision convinced him, even as clubs like Arsenal and Aston Villa showed interest. His versatility—able to play as a striker, No. 10, or winger—makes him a perfect fit for Amorim’s 3-4-3 system, where he’s expected to shine in a creative attacking role.
Cunha’s journey to Old Trafford wasn’t without hurdles. Negotiations hit snags over payment terms, with Wolves rejecting United’s initial plan to spread the £62.5 million fee over five years. Eventually, a three-installment deal over two years sealed the transfer. The forward, currently on international duty with Brazil, awaits visa approval, with his contract—a five-year deal with an option for an extra year—set to begin July 1. This move underscores United’s urgency to bolster their attack after a dismal season where their top scorer, Bruno Fernandes, managed only eight league goals.
Matheus Cunha’s Impact at Wolves
Before his blockbuster move, Matheus Cunha was the heartbeat of Wolves’ attack. Since joining on loan from Atletico Madrid in January 2023, he transformed into one of the Premier League’s most dynamic forwards. His permanent £43 million transfer that summer proved a bargain, as he notched 31 goals in 76 appearances. In the 2024-25 season alone, Cunha’s 15 goals and six assists helped Wolves avoid relegation trouble. His ability to drift into dangerous spaces, create chances, and finish with precision earned him comparisons to Neymar, a nickname from his childhood.
| Matheus Cunha’s 2024-25 Premier League Stats | Value |
|---|---|
| Goals Scored | 15 |
| Assists | 6 |
| Appearances | 33 |
| Expected Goals (xG) Outperformance | +6.4 |
| Open-Play Chances Created | Top at Wolves |
His flair, highlighted by a stunning Olimpico goal against United on Boxing Day, showcased his ability to turn games single-handedly. Wolves fans, while devastated to lose him, recognize his ambition to play on a bigger stage.
Challenges and Expectations at Old Trafford
Matheus Cunha’s arrival comes with high expectations but also questions. Some pundits, like Gary Lineker, have raised concerns about his work ethic, citing occasional criticism from Wolves managers. However, others argue that Cunha’s “ego” reflects his confidence, which could thrive alongside United’s better players. Fitting into Amorim’s system poses another challenge. While Cunha excels as a No. 10 for Wolves, former United midfielder Gordon Strachan questioned where he’ll slot into the 3-4-3 setup. Will he compete with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee for a striker role or operate as a creative playmaker?
Despite these concerns, Cunha’s versatility and proven Premier League pedigree make him a low-risk signing. His 13 Brazil caps and record-tying 15 goals by a Brazilian in a Premier League season (matching Roberto Firmino and Gabriel Martinelli) highlight his elite potential. United’s attack, which struggled with just 15 goals from Hojlund and Zirkzee combined last season, desperately needs Cunha’s spark. Fans hope his close control, South American flair, and knack for decisive moments will lift a squad reeling from a 16th-place finish.
What’s Next for Cunha and United?
With Matheus Cunha’s transfer finalized, attention turns to how he’ll integrate into a squad desperate for a revival. Spotted at Manchester’s Lowry Hotel, Cunha is already generating buzz. His medical is complete, and once visa issues are resolved, he’ll join pre-season training. Amorim’s hints at further signings suggest Cunha is just the start of United’s overhaul, with names like Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo and Ipswich’s Liam Delap linked. The Brazilian’s five-year contract signals long-term faith in his ability to lead United back to glory.
Cunha’s move also raises questions about United’s current forwards. Antony’s future looks uncertain, while Marcus Rashford’s potential exit looms. Cunha’s ability to play multiple roles gives Amorim flexibility, but the pressure is on to deliver immediately. After a season where United finished 42 points behind champions Liverpool, Cunha’s hunger to “fight for big things” aligns with the club’s ambitions. His signing is a statement of intent, but the real test begins when he steps onto the Old Trafford pitch.
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Manchester United fans, are you excited about Matheus Cunha’s arrival? How do you think he’ll fit into Ruben Amorim’s system? Share your thoughts in the comments below and follow our blog for the latest updates on United’s summer rebuild. Don’t miss out on exclusive insights as the Premier League season approaches!