Manchester United have made a significant statement in the summer transfer window by completing the signing of Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers for a reported £62.5 million. The announcement, made on Sunday, June 1, 2025, marks the first major acquisition under head coach Ruben Amorim as the club looks to rebuild following a disappointing Premier League campaign. The transfer, which is subject to visa approval and registration, sees the 26-year-old sign a five-year contract with an option for an additional 12 months, signaling United’s intent to bolster their attacking options with a proven Premier League talent.
Cunha, who has been a standout performer for Wolves since joining from Atletico Madrid in January 2023, brings a wealth of flair and goal-scoring prowess to Old Trafford. During his two-and-a-half seasons at Molineux, he netted 33 goals and provided 15 assists in 92 appearances across all competitions, with 15 of those goals coming in the 2024/25 Premier League season alone. His ability to create chances, carry the ball forward, and deliver in high-pressure moments made him a key target for Amorim, who is tasked with reviving a United side that struggled offensively last season. The Brazilian’s versatility, having played across various forward positions, including as a central striker and a left-sided number 10, aligns perfectly with Amorim’s preferred 3-4-2-1 system, where Cunha is expected to slot in alongside or potentially replace captain Bruno Fernandes in an advanced playmaking role.
The deal was finalized after United triggered Cunha’s £62.5 million release clause, with negotiations between the clubs progressing swiftly in recent weeks. Cunha was spotted in Manchester over the weekend, leaving the Lowry Hotel alongside his family, as he put the finishing touches on the move before joining Brazil’s national team for World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay. His 13 senior caps for Brazil and his inclusion in Carlo Ancelotti’s first Seleção squad underscore his growing reputation on the international stage. Wolves, who secured a club-record fee for their star player, expressed gratitude for Cunha’s contributions, noting his role in helping the team avoid relegation last season, where he was voted the club’s Players’ Player of the Season.
Cunha’s arrival is seen as a coup for Manchester United, who faced competition from Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Saudi Pro League clubs for his signature. Despite United’s failure to qualify for the Champions League, Cunha’s desire to play at Old Trafford and compete for major honors swayed his decision. His maverick style, characterized by fearless dribbling and off-the-cuff decision-making, has drawn comparisons to United legend Eric Cantona, with pundits like Gary Neville praising his ability to inject unpredictability into a side criticized for its lackluster attack. However, some concerns have been raised about Cunha’s occasional disciplinary issues and perceived lack of team principles, as noted by Gary Lineker on the Rest is Football podcast. Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards countered these claims, suggesting that Cunha’s frustrations at Wolves stemmed from playing in a struggling side and that his move to a bigger club could unlock his full potential.
The signing represents a bold step in Amorim’s rebuilding project, with Cunha expected to bring the “X-Factor” United have lacked in recent years. His ability to drop deep, carry the ball, and create scoring opportunities is anticipated to complement Amorim’s tactical vision, which emphasizes fluid movement and versatility from his forwards. Fans and analysts alike are optimistic about the impact Cunha could have, with some describing him as the spark needed to reinvigorate a squad that endured its worst Premier League finish in over half a century.