Matheus Cunha, despite scoring only one goal in fifteen appearances for Brazil, has completed a significant £62.5m transfer to Manchester United.
The Brazilian forward described the move as a “dream come true.”
United triggered a release clause in Cunha’s Wolverhampton Wanderers contract earlier this month, concluding the deal following visa and medical clearances.
Cunha has signed a five-year contract with an option for an additional year.
In his own words, “It’s difficult to express the emotions of becoming a Manchester United player. Since childhood, watching Premier League matches at my grandmother’s, United has been my favorite English team, and wearing the red shirt has always been a dream. I want to thank my family and everyone who helped make this dream a reality.”
His record with Wolves is impressive, having contributed 31 goals across 76 appearances since joining from Atlético Madrid in 2023.
United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, stated: “Securing Matheus was a top priority, and we’re thrilled to have completed his signing so early in the transfer window.”
This acquisition addresses a key need for the club. After a disappointing season with a record-low 44 Premier League goals, strengthening the attack was paramount for manager Ruben Amorim.
While not a traditional center-forward, Cunha’s attacking prowess is evident in his 27 goals across 65 league games for Wolves over the last two seasons.
The club’s recent high-profile signings, Antony and Rasmus Hojlund, faced adaptation challenges in the Premier League, highlighting the importance of Cunha’s experience.
Newcastle United, a Champions League participant next season, also expressed interest in Cunha. United’s absence from European competition this year and their extended absence from the Champions League knockout stages adds context to this move.
Former England midfielder Fara Williams commented to BBC Sport: “United are fortunate to retain their historical appeal and reputation, attracting players of Cunha’s caliber. He undoubtedly enhances the squad.”
Cunha’s impact on Wolves was significant; consistently providing attacking impetus, scoring key goals, facilitating play, and creating goal-scoring opportunities.
Williams added: “Cunha possesses all the qualities a United team desires. His talent and winning mentality are unquestionable.”
His impressive statistics further support this claim; six goals from outside the penalty area and 51 shots on target last season, mirroring Bruno Fernandes’ numbers for United.
His role evolved from a number nine in his debut season at Wolves to a more dynamic attacking midfielder in his second year. Last season, playing as a left-sided number ten, he often dropped deep to win back possession.
Former Wolves coach Edu Rubio remarked: “He needed time to adapt to English football, but his true quality is now evident. Cunha can accelerate United’s attacking play with his dribbling and driving runs, breaking defensive lines. He is technically gifted and versatile, suiting Ruben’s 3-4-2-1 system. He can operate as an eight, ten, second striker, or striker, often drifting to the flank before cutting inside. United should offer him freedom to rotate positions, leveraging his attacking threat and work rate.”
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