Newcastle United keen to beat Manchester United to the signing of Matheus Cunha
Manchester United are in urgent need of a proven, world-class striker this summer after enduring a season plagued by goalscoring issues. With Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee failing to consistently deliver, the pressure is mounting on the club to bring in a clinical finisher. One name that has repeatedly surfaced is Wolves forward Matheus Cunha.
The Brazilian has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford, with reports suggesting United are prepared to trigger his £63 million release clause. Several major outlets have even labelled the Red Devils as frontrunners for his signature. However, a fresh twist has emerged as Football Insider, via Mail Online, now reports that Newcastle United have entered the race, potentially complicating United’s pursuit of the highly-rated forward.
Newcastle United could play spoilsport
For now, Manchester United are believed to be offering Matheus Cunha a significantly more lucrative deal than Newcastle United, putting them in a strong position. However, the situation could shift dramatically if United fail to secure Champions League football next season.
Should the Red Devils fall short, while Newcastle manage to clinch a top-four finish, Cunha may be tempted to choose the Magpies for the promise of elite European competition. With their domestic form faltering, United’s best shot at Champions League qualification lies in winning the UEFA Europa League, making their European campaign all the more critical in this transfer pursuit.
Cunha has been one of the Premier League’s standout performers this season, showcasing his clinical finishing and creative edge in equal measure. The Brazilian has netted 15 goals in 29 league appearances for Wolves in the 2024/25 campaign, seven at home and eight on the road. His goals-per-90-minute ratio stands at an impressive 0.58. When factoring in his six assists, Cunha’s total goal contributions rise to 21, giving him a goal involvement rate of 0.81 per 90 minutes. Furthermore, his non-penalty expected goals (xG) per 90 stands at a notable 0.57, underlining the consistency of his threat in open play.
But Cunha’s value extends beyond the numbers. He’s a livewire in the final third, electric, inventive, and fearless on the ball. Whether darting past defenders on the wing or orchestrating play as a No. 10, his flair and intensity bring a spark that Manchester United have sorely lacked. While his temperament can flare, his relentless energy and sharp eye for the goal make him a constant danger.
Under Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, Cunha could seamlessly slot in as the roaming attacking midfielder, injecting urgency, creativity, and unpredictability. In a summer where finances are tight, triggering his £63 million release clause could be a shrewd investment, a bold move that may just reawaken United’s stagnating frontline and usher in a new attacking era.
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