Manchester United Sign Matheus Cunha From Wolves for £62.5 Million

Manchester United have completed the signing of Brazilian player Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers. The 26-year-old will move to Old Trafford next week. The transfer fee is £62.5 million, and United will pay it in installments over several years.

WHAT HAPPENED?

On Sunday, Manchester United agreed to buy Cunha from Wolves by activating his £62.5 million release clause. Cunha has signed a five-year contract with an option for one more year at Old Trafford. United wanted to pay the fee over five years, while Wolves wanted it over two years. Both clubs have now agreed on the payment structure, and the deal will be finalized next week.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Cunha is the first major signing for Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim. The Brazilian will help resolve a major issue in United’s attack. Cunha had an exceptional 2024/25 season at Wolves, scoring 17 goals and providing six assists in a struggling team. Amorim believes Cunha is the ideal No. 10 for his 3-4-3 formation, a role none of United’s current players can fulfill adequately.

United have had a disappointing season, missing out on the Champions League after losing to Tottenham in the Europa League final. Their summer budget is limited to around £100 million, with a majority of it now going toward Cunha’s transfer. Despite the financial constraints, the Red Devils are reportedly also interested in Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, who has a £30 million relegation release clause.

WHAT CUNHA BRINGS TO UNITED

The Brazilian international has been a standout performer for Wolves, scoring 33 goals in his time at the club. His weekly salary will jump from £120,000 to £200,000 at Manchester United, making him the fourth-highest earner at the club. Only Casemiro (£350,000), Bruno Fernandes (£300,000), and Mason Mount (£250,000) will earn more than him.

Cunha’s versatility as an attacking midfielder and forward will add creativity and goal-scoring ability to United’s lineup. His arrival could signal the departure of several United players. Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Jadon Sancho, who are on loan, are expected to leave, while Alejandro Garnacho has reportedly been told he is free to find a new club.

WHAT NEXT FOR UNITED?

With Cunha’s signing nearly complete, United will look to bring in more players as Ruben Amorim reshapes the squad. The Red Devils are expected to pursue a new goalkeeper and midfielder. To fund these additional transfers, several players might be sold, including Garnacho, who could fetch a fee of around £60 million. Napoli and Chelsea are both interested in him.

The future of Bruno Fernandes is also uncertain, with reports suggesting Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal have made a £100 million approach for him. As United prepare for the 2025/26 season, there could be more changes in their squad.