Manchester United has announced the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers (Wolves) in a deal worth £62.5 million. Cunha, a 26-year-old Brazilian international, will sign a five-year contract with the option for a further year, becoming Ruben Amorim’s first signing of the summer transfer window.
The transfer was facilitated after United triggered Cunha’s £62.5 million release clause, which was inserted in his new contract in January. Cunha reportedly wanted to play for United, viewing them as one of the biggest clubs in the world, and was not deterred by their failure to qualify for the Champions League. Five Premier League teams, including Arsenal and Aston Villa, were interested in signing Cunha this summer, but he chose United.
The transfer fee will be paid in three installments over two years, with Wolves receiving the full release clause amount. United initially offered to pay in five installments, but the deal was structured differently. Cunha’s signing is subject to visa and registration.
Cunha is expected to play as a No 10 for United, scoring goals and creating chances for others. According to former Manchester United defender Gary Neville, Cunha suits Amorim’s system, which requires players who can beat opponents and travel with the ball.
“Manchester United are desperate in that position. They need someone who can beat players, someone who’s equally as good running through the middle with the ball and travelling with the ball, and go out wide and support the wing-back,” Neville said. “Cunha’s the type of player that suits this system that Ruben Amorim wants to play.”
Cunha’s signing could pave the way for other players to join United, showcasing the club’s pulling power in the transfer market. Sky Sports News’ Dharmesh Sheth described Matheus Cunha as a “statement” signing, highlighting the importance of this summer transfer window for Amorim’s first major deals. Cunha’s ability to score goals and create for others will be crucial for United, who struggled to score last season.