Manchester United are on the verge of making Matheus Cunha their first signing of the summer, having triggered the £62.5 million release clause in the Wolves forward’s contract. The deal, which will see the payment divided into three instalments over the next two years, marks a significant statement of intent from the club following a turbulent and underwhelming season.
Initial attempts to spread the payment across five years were rebuffed by Wolves, but a revised offer met the financial terms of the release clause. Cunha is now set to become the first addition under new manager Ruben Amorim, who is looking to reshape the squad ahead of the new campaign. The Brazilian forward has already agreed personal terms with United and will undergo a medical in the coming days.
Cunha enjoyed an impressive campaign with Wolves, scoring 15 goals and playing a crucial role in ensuring the team steered clear of relegation. He originally arrived from RB Leipzig on loan in January 2023, before making the move permanent for £43 million. In February of this year, he signed a new contract which included the current release clause, inserted amid growing interest from other Premier League sides.
The deal for Cunha is expected to be the first of several moves in what could be a busy transfer window for United. Amorim is eager to revamp the squad, and attention has already turned to Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap. The young forward, who recently suffered relegation with his club, has a £30 million release clause that United are monitoring closely. Delap is seen as a long-term prospect who could add depth and energy to the front line.
Beyond incomings, there could also be significant changes in United’s attacking department. The club is understood to be open to offers for Alejandro Garnacho, provided any bid meets their valuation of around £60 million. Despite being one of the most exciting prospects in recent years, Garnacho’s potential departure highlights a willingness from the club to be bold and pragmatic in reshaping the squad.
Marcus Rashford’s future also appears uncertain. The forward, who spent the latter half of the season on loan at Aston Villa, is among the players United are keen to move on. Once a talismanic figure at Old Trafford, Rashford’s form has dipped, and the club believes a fresh start might benefit all parties.
Another player likely to leave is Antony. The Brazilian winger has impressed during his loan spell at Real Betis, helping the Spanish side reach the final of the UEFA Conference League. His performances have not gone unnoticed, and United are expected to entertain permanent offers for the winger.
With the club entering a new era under Amorim, these early moves suggest a clear strategy: rejuvenate the squad, bring in fresh talent suited to the manager’s vision, and cut ties with players who no longer fit the system. The signing of Cunha, a forward with proven Premier League experience and versatility, fits this blueprint. If the club’s pursuit of Delap and the potential exits of Garnacho, Rashford, and Antony come to fruition, it could signal one of the most transformative windows in United’s recent history.
