Matheus Cunha, despite scoring only one goal in fifteen appearances for Brazil, has completed a substantial £62.5m move to Manchester United.
The Brazilian forward described the transfer as a realized dream.
United triggered a release clause in Cunha’s contract with Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this month. The transfer, contingent upon a medical and visa processing, 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 joining Manchester United,” 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 thank my family and everyone who helped make this dream a reality.”
Cunha’s record with Wolves comprises 31 goals in 76 appearances across all competitions following his 2023 arrival 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’s two-season Wolves tenure yielded 27 goals in 65 league matches.
Recent high-profile signings, winger Antony and striker Rasmus Hojlund, faced difficulties adapting to the Premier League.
Champions League-bound Newcastle United also expressed interest in Cunha.
Manchester United’s absence from European competition this season underscores their three-year absence from the Champions League knockout stages.
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 enhances the squad.”
Cunha was instrumental to Wolves’ attack over the past two seasons, providing crucial goals and intelligent link-up play.
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 penalty area, matching Bruno Fernandes’ attempts on target (51 in all competitions).
After a first full season primarily as a number nine, Cunha transitioned into an attacking midfielder role.
As a left-sided number ten, Cunha often tracked back to win possession.
Former Wolves coach Edu Rubio stated, “He needed time to acclimatize to English football, but now his true quality shines. Cunha can accelerate United’s build-up play with his dribbling and incisive runs.”
“He’s a top player with superb technique. Adaptable as an eight, ten, second striker, or striker, he fits perfectly into Ruben’s 3-4-2-1 system. He cuts inside from the flank to penetrate the box, with or without the ball.”
“United should grant him attacking freedom, allowing him to rotate across the forward line. In return, he offers attacking potency and tireless work-rate.”
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