Matheus Cunha, having scored one goal in fifteen appearances for Brazil, has finalized a £62.5m move to Manchester United.
The Brazilian forward described the transfer as a “dream come true.”
United triggered a release clause in Cunha’s Wolverhampton Wanderers contract earlier this month, concluding the deal following a medical and visa approval.
Cunha has signed a five-year contract with an option for a further year.
“It’s difficult to express my emotions about becoming a Manchester United player,” he stated. “Since childhood, watching Premier League matches at my grandmother’s house in Brazil, United has been my favorite English team. Wearing the red shirt has always been a dream.”
“I want to thank my family and everyone who’s helped make this dream a reality.”
Cunha contributed 31 goals in 76 appearances across all competitions for Wolves after his 2023 transfer from Atlético Madrid.
United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, commented, “Securing Matheus was a top priority this summer, and we’re thrilled to have completed his signing so early in the transfer window.”
Following a record-low 44 goals scored in 38 Premier League matches last season, bolstering the attack was paramount for manager Ruben Amorim.
While not a traditional center-forward, Cunha netted 27 goals in 65 league games for Wolves over the past two seasons.
Wingers Antony and striker Rasmus Hojlund, high-profile recent signings, have faced challenges adapting to the Premier League.
Newcastle United, Champions League participants next season, also expressed interest in Cunha.
Manchester United’s absence from European competition this season highlights a significant gap since their last Champions League knockout stage appearance over three years ago.
Former England midfielder Fara Williams told BBC Sport, “United are fortunate to retain their historic appeal and reputation, attracting players of Cunha’s caliber and potential. Undoubtedly, he enhances the squad.”
Cunha was instrumental to Wolves’ attack in the last two seasons, scoring key goals, orchestrating plays, and expertly dismantling defenses.
Williams added, “Cunha possesses all the attributes a United team desires. His skills and winning mentality are unquestionable.”
Last season, Cunha scored six goals from outside the penalty area, matching Bruno Fernandes’ attempts on target (51) across all competitions for United.
Initially playing as a number nine, Cunha transitioned into an attacking midfielder during his second season at Molineux, frequently dropping deep to retrieve possession as a left-sided number ten.
Former Wolves coach Edu Rubio stated, “He needed time to adjust to English football, but his true quality is now evident. Cunha can accelerate United’s build-up play with his dribbling skills and effective driving runs. He’s a top player with exceptional technique, adaptable to various roles within Ruben’s 3-4-2-1 system. He provides an attacking threat and contributes defensively as well.”
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