Manchester United set to sign Matheus Cunha in £62.5m deal as summer overhaul begins

Manchester United have reached a verbal agreement with Wolverhampton for Matheus Cunha, activating his £62.5 million release clause in staged payments. The deal marks the start of a wide-scale squad shake-up involving Garnacho, Rashford and Fernandes.

26 May 2025 - 13.05

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Manchester United have opened the summer transfer window by reaching a verbal agreement with Wolverhampton Wanderers for the signing of Matheus Cunha, as reported by Fabrizio Romano. The deal includes the full activation of the Brazilian forward’s £62.5 million release clause, which will be settled through a structured payment plan.

Cunha, 25, is set to sign a five-year contract with an option for a further year. Despite United’s failure to qualify for the Champions League, the striker has reportedly made Old Trafford his preferred destination from the start. Both personal terms and the financial structure of the deal have been agreed in full, according to Romano.

Amorim to operate with £100m summer budget

United’s new manager Ruben Amorim will reportedly work with a £100 million transfer budget during the summer, as per The Guardian. A significant portion of that figure is already allocated for Cunha’s acquisition.

In addition to strengthening the front line, Amorim aims to increase squad depth. One of the alternative targets is Liam Delap of Ipswich Town. According to TalkSPORT, the 21-year-old striker has a £30 million release clause that became active following Ipswich’s relegation from the Premier League.

Key exits on the cards: Rashford, Sancho, Antony

Squad balance and financial flexibility are also part of the plan. According to TeamTalk, United are preparing to offload Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Antony — all of whom spent time out on loan. The club hopes to generate offers around £45 million for Rashford, £25 million for Sancho, and £32.5 million for Antony.

Garnacho tensions rise as Napoli circle

Meanwhile, Alejandro Garnacho’s future has become increasingly uncertain following a reported falling-out with the coaching staff after being benched in the Europa League final. AS reports that the winger is in contact with Napoli and that United are now open to offers for the 19-year-old.

Fernandes receives £100m offer from Al Hilal

United captain Bruno Fernandes has also attracted interest from abroad. TalkSPORT reports that Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal have made a £100 million bid for the Portuguese playmaker and offered him a staggering £65 million annual salary. The club is currently assessing the proposal within the context of its financial structure and long-term squad planning.

While Matheus Cunha’s arrival signals the beginning of Manchester United’s transfer window, it also marks the start of a broader rebuild under Ruben Amorim. With Garnacho, Rashford, Fernandes and others potentially on the move, the summer is set to bring significant change at Old Trafford.

Manchester United