Wolverhampton Wanderers’ manager Vitor Pereira reacts to Man United’s pursuit of Matheus Cunha | OneFootball

Wolverhampton Wanderers’ manager Vitor Pereira has reacted to the news that Manchester United are close to agreeing a deal to sign his side’s star forward, Matheus Cunha.

As relayed by The Peoples Person yesterday, the Red Devils are set to win the race for Cunha, 25, ahead of Premier League rivals Arsenal and Newcastle United.

Italian transfer guru Fabrizio Romano reveals United are “closing in” on Cunha’s signing with only the “final details” left to iron out.

The Brazilian international has agreed personal terms with Old Trafford officials and is keen on the switch regardless of whether United are in Europe next season.

Ruben Amorim is believed to have been crucial in identifying Cunha as a key target with widespread agreement amongst the club’s executive branch that the 25-year-old would be a perfect fit in the Portuguese’s system.

The Brazilian international has enjoyed a stellar campaign at Molineux, scoring 15 goals and providing six assists in the league.

Wolves have played a 3-4-2-1 system since Vitor Pereira’s arrival in December to replace Gary O’Neil – the exact same set-up Amorim has been seeking to implement with United.

Cunha has thrived in the number ten role on the left for Pereira with Amorim keen for the player to fill this exact position at Old Trafford, enabling Bruno Fernandes to remain stationed in central midfield.

The Brazilian’s contract at Molineux contains a £62.5 million release clause which United now appear ready to trigger, though a different payment structure may be agreed to enable to Reds to spread the cost over a longer period.

Speaking in a press-conference yesterday ahead of Wolves’ match against FA Cup winners Crystal Palace tonight, Pereira was asked about United’s intention to complete a deal for Cunha this week.

“I have the same information as you,” Pereira stated, while maintaining a revealing smile as he spoke. “I really don’t know. I know he’s my player, and he’s committed. We’ll see, but he’s happy.”

It was a standard response from a manager who ultimately has little say in the future of a player with a release clause. But it looks like Cunha is set to trade one Portuguese coach for another this summer while United welcome a much-needed upgrade to their misfiring forward line.

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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