Matheus Cunha, despite scoring only one goal in fifteen appearances for Brazil, has completed a £62.5m move to Manchester United.
The Brazilian forward described joining Manchester United as a “dream come true.”
United triggered a release clause in Cunha’s contract with Wolves earlier this month. The transfer, contingent upon a medical and visa approval, is now finalized.
Cunha has signed a five-year contract with an option for an additional year.
“It’s difficult to express my feelings about becoming a Manchester United player,” Cunha 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 helped make this dream a reality.”
Cunha’s record at Wolves includes 31 goals in 76 appearances across all competitions following his 2023 transfer from Atletico 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 historically low goal tally of 44 in 38 Premier League matches last season, bolstering the attack was a key objective for manager Ruben Amorim.
While not a traditional center-forward, Cunha scored 27 goals in 65 league games for Wolves over the past two seasons.
Recent high-profile signings, Antony and Rasmus Hojlund, 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 next season highlights their extended absence from the Champions League knockout stages, exceeding three years.
Former England midfielder Fara Williams told BBC Sport, “United are fortunate to retain their historical appeal and reputation, attracting players of Cunha’s caliber and potential. He undoubtedly strengthens the squad.”
Cunha was instrumental to Wolves’ attack in the last two seasons, scoring vital goals and showcasing exceptional playmaking abilities.
Williams added, “Cunha possesses all the attributes a United team desires. His skillset and winning mentality are undeniable.”
Last season, Cunha scored six goals from outside the box and registered 51 shots on target across all competitions—equaling Bruno Fernandes’ output for United.
After a first season primarily as a number nine, Cunha transitioned into an attacking midfield role in his second year at Wolves.
Playing as a left-sided number ten last season, Cunha frequently dropped deep to win back possession.
Former Wolves coach Edu Rubio stated, “He needed time to adjust to English football, but he’s now showcasing his true talent. Cunha can accelerate United’s build-up play with his dribbling and driving runs, effectively breaking opposition lines.”
“He’s a top player with exceptional technical skills. His versatility allows him to play as an eight, ten, second striker, or striker, fitting well into Ruben’s 3-4-2-1 system. He often drifts wide and cuts inside, penetrating the box with or without the ball.”
“United should offer him attacking freedom, allowing positional rotation across the forward line. In return, he provides a potent attacking threat and impressive work rate off the ball.”
The spark to reinvigorate Man Utd? How Cunha fits Amorim’s plans
Latest Manchester United news, analysis and fan views
Get Man Utd news notifications
Comments can not be loaded
To load Comments you need to enable JavaScript in your browser