Matheus Cunha has described his transfer to Manchester United as a “dream come true” after finalizing his £62.5 million switch from Wolves.
United triggered the release clause in Cunha’s contract earlier this month, and the move has now been completed following a successful medical and visa approval.
The 25-year-old has signed a five-year contract, with the option to extend it by another year.
“It’s difficult to put into words what it means to become a Manchester United player,” Cunha said. “Since I was a child watching Premier League matches at my grandmother’s home in Brazil, United was always my favorite English club.
To now wear the red shirt is a dream I’ve had for years. I’m grateful to my family and everyone who has helped make this possible.”
Cunha joined Wolves from Atletico Madrid in 2023, scoring 31 goals in 76 appearances across all competitions.
His performances in the Premier League quickly drew attention, with United making him a top target this summer.
“Securing Matheus was one of our main objectives for this transfer window, so we’re delighted to have finalized the deal early,” said Manchester United’s director of football Jason Wilcox.
United Banking on Historic Appeal Amid European Absence
Following a dismal Premier League season in which United scored just 44 goals across 38 matches — their lowest tally ever — manager Ruben Amorim made strengthening the attack a key priority.
While Cunha is not a traditional centre-forward, his 27 league goals in 65 appearances for Wolves over the past two seasons demonstrate his eye for goal.
United’s recent big-money signings like Antony and Rasmus Hojlund have struggled to fully adapt to the Premier League, adding pressure to this summer’s transfer business.
Cunha had attracted interest from Champions League-bound Newcastle United but ultimately chose Old Trafford, despite United’s absence from European competitions next season and their failure to reach the Champions League knockout stages for over three years.
“United are fortunate that their history and reputation still attract players of Cunha’s caliber,” former England international Fara Williams told BBC Sport. “There’s no question that he improves the squad.”
Cunha’s Versatility Fits Amorim’s Tactical Vision
Cunha played a pivotal role for Wolves, becoming their creative hub and leading attacking force.
In addition to his goals, he was key in linking play, unlocking defenses, and scoring from distance — notching six goals from outside the box last season and recording 51 shots on target, matching Bruno Fernandes’ tally for United.
Initially deployed as a number nine in his first season at Molineux, Cunha evolved into an attacking midfielder, often playing as a left-sided number 10 and frequently dropping deep to collect possession.
“He needed time to adapt to English football but has now shown his full potential,” said former Wolves coach Edu Rubio. “Cunha’s dribbling, driving runs, and technical ability allow him to break lines and push the ball upfield effectively.”
According to Rubio, Cunha’s versatility will serve United well, fitting seamlessly into Amorim’s preferred 3-4-2-1 system. “He can operate as an eight, a ten, second striker, or even a centre-forward.
He likes to drift wide and cut inside, making him a dynamic threat both with and without the ball.”
Rubio also stressed the importance of giving Cunha freedom in attack: “If United allow him the flexibility to rotate and interchange positions, he’ll provide them with creativity, directness, and tireless work off the ball.”
