As the summer transfer window approaches, Manchester United have taken a major step forward in strengthening their attack.
According to renowned Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, negotiations between the Red Devils and Wolves’ star forward Matheus Cunha have entered an “advanced and very concrete” stage, with both parties planning a crucial round of talks this week to accelerate the deal’s progress.
United Pushing Hard: Transfer Reaches Critical Phase
Romano reports that Manchester United remain “highly optimistic” about securing Cunha’s signing.
While United are willing to meet Cunha’s £62.5 million release clause, they are aiming to structure the payment across several installments to ease the financial burden on their books—one of the key details still being discussed.
Furthermore, United have set a clear timeline: they hope to finalize the agreement before the official opening of the summer window on June 1st to avoid getting drawn into a potential bidding war once other clubs become active.
Smooth Progress with the Player, Minor Contract Details Pending
According to GIVEMESPORT, discussions between United and Cunha’s camp have gone very smoothly, with only minor salary structure details left to iron out. A pivotal meeting is scheduled this week to finalize those elements.
Meanwhile, TEAMtalk reports that United have already proposed a five-year contract running until June 30, 2030.
Initially, the offer was for four years plus an optional fifth, but United have now shifted to a direct five-year deal to optimize financial amortization.
By spreading the £62.5 million fee over five years, United would account for only £12.5 million per fiscal year on their books, compared to £15.625 million annually if it were a four-year contract.
This approach is crucial for complying with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.
Staggered Payment Plan to Safeguard Cash Flow
Although United are prepared to cover Cunha’s full release clause, they prefer to distribute the payment across three to four seasons.
This structure will allow the club to preserve cash flow flexibility while maintaining squad reinforcements.
Once a personal agreement is finalized with Cunha, United will move immediately to negotiate the exact payment schedule with Wolves.
Romano estimates that the entire transfer could be wrapped up within one to two weeks:
“United will need at least another meeting or two to resolve the final details. Given the current pace, I don’t expect Cunha’s transfer to drag on until late July or August. If everything goes to plan, it could be completed quite quickly.”
Cunha’s Subtle Public Stance
Notably, following Wolves’ 3-0 victory over Leicester City—where Cunha contributed one goal and two assists—the Brazilian striker did not comment directly on the Manchester United rumors. Instead, he reaffirmed his loyalty to Wolves:
“We are all committed to Wolves and want to show our best for the fans. We’ve achieved six consecutive wins and set a club points record—this is something we deserve.”
“I’ve always said I’m happy here. Sometimes I get overly emotional because I truly love playing for this team.”
Cunha’s comments demonstrate respect for his current club while still leaving enough room for a potential move.
United Must Stay Alert to Rival Interest
Despite being in pole position, United must remain vigilant against other suitors entering the race.
According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal, Aston Villa, and several Saudi clubs are monitoring Cunha’s situation closely.
If United’s negotiations stall, it’s highly possible that one of these clubs could swoop in—especially as Arsenal are actively searching for a versatile forward to bolster their front line.
The next week will therefore be decisive in determining whether United can successfully lock in their primary target.
A New Era at United: Cunha Poised as First Major Signing
Matheus Cunha, 25, has impressed this season with 17 goals and 6 assists across all competitions for Wolves, showcasing exceptional dribbling, ball progression, and finishing skills—attributes United are eager to inject into their squad.
Securing Cunha would not only ease the attacking burden on Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee but also significantly boost United’s frontline dynamism ahead of a crucial rebuilding phase.
For Manchester United’s leadership, finalizing Cunha early would send a strong message of intent to fans and rivals alike: The Red Devils’ resurgence is taking shape, step by step.
