Wolves forward Matheus Cunha 'optimistic' about Man United move

Matheus Cunha is confident about a potential transfer to Manchester United after the club reportedly identified him as their primary target for the playmaker position.

According to Manchester Evening News, the South American is “optimistic” that a deal could be reached, despite the challenge of his £62.5million asking price.

Last summer, United refrained from surpassing the £60million mark for any of their five signings, but they are expected to explore the possibility of structuring Cunha’s transfer in instalments.

Cunha, who has netted 16 goals in 31 appearances for Wolves this season, recently expressed his desire to leave the club in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The Brazil international signed a new contract in January, which included a salary boost and the introduction of a release clause.

Ahead of United’s 1-0 loss to Wolves last week, United coach Ruben Amorim described Cunha as “real quality,” highlighting the player’s potential impact.

“He (Wolves coach Vitor Pereira)’s playing a 3-4-3, he’s doing quite well! He’s changing some players, he has real quality players – Cunha and all these guys, they have real quality,” Amorim said.

“I just gave the example because I remembered about Matheus.

“He’s scoring a lot of goals. Just that.”

Manchester United are also interested in Ipswich striker Liam Delap, whose £30m release clause is set to become active following their imminent relegation.

The combined cost of signing Delap and Cunha, estimated at £92.5m, could be offset by the planned sales of Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Antony, all currently out on loan.

Aston Villa has an option to make Rashford’s loan move permanent for £40m, while Chelsea are obligated to purchase Sancho for between £20m and £25m.

Antony’s value has risen thanks to his impressive form for Real Betis.

For United to comply with the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules, they would need to secure at least £32.52m from the sale of Antony to avoid a financial loss.

The club signed the Brazilian forward for an initial £81.3m on a five-year deal in 2022.