Manchester United have signed Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5M, with the Brazilian’s 17 goals and 6 assists in 2024–25 set to transform their attack.
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United Break the Bank for Wolves’ Talisman
Manchester United have taken a decisive step in their summer rebuild by triggering Matheus Cunha’s £62.5m ($84.7m) release clause at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The 26-year-old Brazilian, whose stock has soared since joining Wolves in 2023, becomes manager Ruben Amorim’s first major signing ahead of the 2025–26 season.
Cunha’s arrival addresses United’s pressing need for creativity and goals, with the club enduring a stagnant campaign marked by a reliance on Bruno Fernandes.
His £62.5m fee reflects his status as one of the Premier League’s most dynamic forwards, having scored 17 goals and provided 6 assists across competitions in 2024–25.
Cunha’s Stats Speak for Themselves
Cunha’s impact at Wolves has been transformative. After a slow start, he emerged as the club’s focal point, leading Wolves in goals (15), chances created (57), and successful dribbles (2.1 per 90) in the Premier League this season.
His ability to overperform expected goals by 6.55 highlights his clinical finishing, while his underperforming assists (1.41 below xA) underscores Wolves’ wastefulness in front of goal.
Tactical Fit in Amorim’s System
Cunha’s versatility makes him a perfect fit for Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 setup.
At Wolves, he thrived as a left-sided inside forward, exploiting gaps between midfield and defense with his positional intelligence.
United’s current lack of a playmaker in advanced areas—Fernandes often dropping deep—means Cunha’s ability to link play and score from tight angles will be pivotal.
While he can operate as a striker, his best role is supporting a target man.
Wolves’ Jørgen Strand Larsen benefited from Cunha’s clever passes, and United hope he’ll similarly elevate misfiring Danish striker Rasmus Højlund.
Expert Praise
Wolves manager Vitor Pereira lauded Cunha’s “special” qualities, noting his ability to “make the difference in small details.”
Ex-Atlético Madrid boss Diego Simeone, who signed Cunha in 2022, described him as a player who “transmits power and personality.”
BBC pundit Micah Richards hailed his “sensational football IQ,” highlighting his knack for unlocking defenses.
Cunha’s signing is part of a broader overhaul. United are also targeting Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitiké as a striker and Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite for defense.
The predicted 2025–26 lineup includes Cunha alongside Ekitiké, with Fernandes orchestrating from behind.
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What the Move Means?
Cunha’s arrival signals United’s intent to return to attacking verve.
His 2.1 dribbles per 90 and 1.5 shots on target will add much-needed penetration, while his leadership qualities—evident in Wolves’ struggles—could inspire a young squad.
With the 2025–26 season fast approaching, Amorim has prioritized players who fit his high-energy, possession-based style.
Cunha’s signing is a statement of intent, with United aiming to challenge for European spots and domestic honors.
What’s Next?
Matheus Cunha’s arrival at Old Trafford marks the start of a busy window.
Manchester United will look to add another forward and defensive reinforcements before the 2025–26 season begins.
Cunha’s adaptability and end product make him a statement signing as United chase silverware on multiple fronts.
Also Read: Why Man Utd Are Signing Matheus Cunha
