Report: Man Utd in advanced talks to land star from Premier League rivals | OneFootball

Cunha’s Journey from Brazil to Europe

Matheus Cunha’s career has been anything but conventional. The 26-year-old Brazil international has carved a unique path through five clubs in four different countries, and now looks primed for his biggest move yet. Following a standout campaign for Wolves in which he netted 17 goals in 36 appearances – including 15 in the Premier League – Manchester United are believed to be closing in on a major summer transfer.

The Athletic has reported that United have already made contact with Cunha’s representatives, and they are willing to meet the forward’s £62.5 million release clause. Talks have focused on the structure of the payment, with United proposing to spread the fee over five years. Wolves, however, want the majority of the fee paid in three instalments over two years, in line with the terms in Cunha’s current contract.

There is optimism that both sides will reach a compromise, and Cunha appears open to a new chapter in his footballing journey. A player of his adaptability and international experience offers much-needed flair and end product for a United side that endured a dismal 2024–25 season, finishing in 15th place.

Photo IMAGO

Origins of a Rising Star

Cunha’s story is rooted in his humble beginnings in Curitiba, Brazil, where he came through the ranks at Coritiba. His European breakthrough came in 2017, thanks to Eric Lovey – the former advisor and agent of Brazilian icon Ronaldinho – who spotted the youngster’s talent and recommended him to Swiss club FC Sion.

“As soon as I heard about him I wanted to follow his performances,” Lovey told Swiss newspaper Blick in 2018. “During the Nike Cup in the USA he confirmed all the good things I had heard, especially against the Manchester United youth team.”

“He was able to get the better of English players who were already adult-sized. I wasn’t there myself but hearing about how he played reinforced my desire to work with him.”

It didn’t take long for Cunha to make an impact. After just one season at Sion, he earned a move to RB Leipzig in 2018. However, his time in the Bundesliga was less fruitful. Despite showing flashes of brilliance, he struggled to adapt to the tactical rigidity required by Julian Nagelsmann.

A Free Spirit Finding His Form

Hertha BSC proved a more suitable environment for Cunha’s expressive style, before further spells at Atlético Madrid and eventually Wolves. His form in the Premier League this past season has been his most consistent yet, drawing plaudits for his blend of creativity, aggression and finishing.

As Hertha journalist Marc Schwitzky explained, “Probably the move to Leipzig came a little too early for Cunha, who was just 19 years old at the time of the transfer.”

“In Cunha’s case, however, there was also the fact that he wants to be an absolute free spirit on the field. At that time, his game was even wilder, even more individual. Julian Nagelsmann, then still coach at RB Leipzig, however, relies on a strong collective in which every player subordinates himself to the system and has to follow clear instructions.”

“Cunha’s talent flashed again and again at Leipzig, where he also provided great moments, but due to a lack of adaptability or tactical discipline, he was only used irregularly and thus again lacked consistency.”

Why United Want Him Now

In a summer expected to usher in major changes at Old Trafford, United’s pursuit of Cunha represents a clear intention to reintroduce attacking dynamism and versatility into their line-up. With doubts over the future of several forwards, including Anthony Martial and Jadon Sancho, Cunha provides a profile that is difficult to replicate – a forward capable of operating across the front three, creating for others, and finishing decisively.

Cunha’s combination of international pedigree and recent Premier League success aligns with United’s need for immediate impact, while his age and growth trajectory still offer room for development.

Should the payment structure be resolved, the move could go through early in the transfer window, allowing United to integrate him during pre-season – a luxury they have often lacked in recent years.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United fan’s perspective, this potential move makes a lot of sense. Matheus Cunha is exactly the kind of energetic and intelligent forward the team has been crying out for. His recent form with Wolves has been electric, and he seems to be improving year on year.

At a time when confidence around Old Trafford is at an all-time low following a disastrous 15th-place finish, signing a proven Premier League performer could lift morale. More importantly, Cunha is a player who does not shy away from responsibility. He carried Wolves at times last season and would surely relish the challenge of leading United’s front line.

The fact he can play as a central striker, a second striker or out wide adds even more value. And while the £62.5 million fee is sizeable, it reflects today’s market for proven attacking players in their prime.

Yes, there are concerns about his previous inconsistency at Leipzig, but he’s clearly matured since then. If United can support him with a more cohesive tactical structure and give him the freedom he enjoys, fans could be treated to a new talisman at Old Trafford.

Whether or not the board finally delivers a forward with both flair and substance remains to be seen – but Cunha would be a strong start to a long-overdue rebuild.