Manchester United are exploring the possibility of triggering the £62.5 million ($83.6 million) release clause in Matheus Cunha\'s contract at Wolverhampton Wanderers, according to sources familiar with the situation.
The Red Devils are looking to strengthen their attacking options this summer and have identified the 25-year-old Brazilian forward as one of their primary targets. Sources indicate United have received positive signals regarding Cunha\'s willingness to move to Old Trafford should formal negotiations begin.
Cunha, who signed a new contract with Wolves in February, is understood to have done so with the understanding he would be permitted to leave this summer. Despite interest from several other Premier League clubs, the player appears to be favoring a potential move to Manchester.
Wolves secured their Premier League status with a 1-0 victory over United at Old Trafford on Sunday. Following the match, Wolves head coach Ruben Amorim was observed in deep conversation with Cunha and specifically mentioned the Brazilian during his pre-match press conference.
Since joining Wolves from Atlético Madrid initially on loan in January 2023, Cunha has established himself as a consistent goal threat in England\'s top flight, scoring 32 league goals overall with 16 coming in the current campaign. The forward has earned a 7.36 WhoScored rating this season with 14 goals and four assists in the Premier League.
United\'s interest in Cunha reportedly stems partly from his effectiveness in the 3-4-3 formation employed by Wolves under Amorim, which mirrors the tactical setup preferred by United coach Vitor Pereira. Sources indicate Cunha is being targeted to fill one of the two No. 10 positions behind the central striker.
Manchester United are also pursuing a new center forward for the upcoming season, with Liam Delap and Victor Osimhen among the candidates under consideration. Cunha initially joined Wolves permanently for €50 million following his loan spell, after previously joining Atlético Madrid from Hertha BSC for €35 million in 2021.
Via Rob Dawson/ESPN