Manchester United Have ‘Reached Agreement’ to Sign £62.5m Forward – Report | OneFootball

Matheus Cunha to Manchester United: Agreement Edges Closer Amid Arsenal Concerns

Manchester United are reportedly on the verge of completing a major signing, as they look to bring Wolves forward Matheus Cunha to Old Trafford this summer. As first reported by Goal Brasil, United have “reached an agreement” with the 25-year-old Brazilian, activating his £62.5 million release clause to secure his services ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Cunha’s stock has risen dramatically this campaign, with 14 goals and 4 assists in just 25 Premier League starts. His performances have not only caught the eye of United scouts but also made him a target for Premier League rivals Arsenal. However, hesitation from the Gunners has seemingly opened the door for United to pounce.

Arsenal Step Back Over Sustainability Concerns

While United press ahead, Arsenal have reportedly cooled their interest.

The Gunners are said to be making a deliberate effort to avoid “high-profile transfer battles unless a signing is seen as virtually risk-free,” and Cunha does not currently tick that box.

Concerns over his discipline and doubts over whether he can maintain this level at the highest stage have prompted the hesitation. This has left United with a clear path—one they appear ready to race down with intent.

Photo: IMAGO

Personal Terms Still a Stumbling Block

Despite reports from Brazil claiming an agreement is in place, a respected English journalist has offered a more measured update. Speaking on NBC Sports, David Ornstein clarified:

“He wants to come, we’re told, but personal terms would still need to be agreed, which is not a formality.”

United’s top priority this summer is strengthening their attacking options, with a centre-forward and a No. 10 role both key focuses. Ornstein added:

“The finances are in place… They do NOT depend on European football, I’m told, nor on sales to necessitate them.”

This suggests United are confident in their summer transfer plans regardless of their European fate, a significant shift from previous windows that were hampered by financial constraints.

Photo: IMAGO

Amorim’s Tactical Vision Behind the Move

New manager Ruben Amorim has already begun shaping United in his image, and the pursuit of Cunha reflects his tactical ambitions. Amorim is known for deploying fluid, high-tempo attacking football — a style Cunha suits perfectly.

Micah Richards previously praised the Brazilian’s footballing intelligence on BBC Match of the Day, describing it as:

“Absolutely sensational.”

Cunha’s ability to drop deep, link play, and create space for wide runners mirrors the tactical structure Amorim used to great success at Sporting CP. Bringing him into the fold at United could be transformative — if the deal crosses the finish line.

Contingency Plans in Place

While optimism is high, United aren’t putting all their eggs in one basket. Alternatives such as Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo and Southampton’s Tyler Dibling are also being monitored.

But it’s clear that Cunha is the prime target. As Ornstein rightly notes:

“It’s not close just yet, but I could see this one developing rapidly.”

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As Manchester United fans, this is exactly the kind of aggressive move we’ve been crying out for. Ruben Amorim isn’t messing around. He’s spotted a gap in Arsenal’s hesitation and moved decisively — that’s the mentality of a winner.

Cunha might not be a household name like Osimhen or Kane, but what he offers is dynamism, work rate, flair, and a footballing IQ that suits Amorim’s style down to the ground. He’s not just a poacher — he’s a playmaker in a forward’s body, someone who can unlock packed defences and bring others into the game. That’s the kind of centre-forward we’ve lacked since prime Martial, and even he didn’t offer the all-around qualities Cunha does.

If you’ve watched Wolves this season, you’ll know Cunha’s goals aren’t flukes — they’re a result of smart movement and confidence. Sure, he’s overperformed his xG slightly, but isn’t that what the best players do? Arsenal can keep playing it safe, we’ll take the risk and reap the rewards.

This is Amorim putting his stamp on the squad. If Cunha signs, it’s a statement: United are back in business, and we’re not here to make up the numbers.