Arsenal And Manchester United Set For Transfer Tug-Of-War Over £62.5m Wolves Star Matheus Cunha
The transfer market is heating up as Arsenal and Manchester United prepare for a fierce contest over Wolves striker Matheus Cunha, a £62.5 million-rated Brazilian whose breakout Premier League season has turned heads and raised hopes across England’s top clubs. The battle for Cunha’s signature is more than just about adding goals: it’s a strategic move that could shape both clubs’ futures as they seek to reclaim lost glory or take the next step forward.
Matheus Cunha, 25, has been one of the brightest sparks in Wolves’ relegation-threatened campaign. Despite signing a new contract in January, his deal contains a release clause that all but guarantees a summer move if suitors meet the £62.5 million valuation. Cunha himself has expressed a desire to compete for titles, stating recently, “I want to fight for big things. I have potential.” Scoring 13 goals and assisting four in just 26 league appearances, he’s proven his quality despite the team’s struggles.
Manchester United appear to have taken the early initiative. Reports confirm United have established initial contact with Cunha’s representatives, with face-to-face talks imminent. Interestingly, transfer insider Ben Jacobs suggests lack of Champions League football won’t dissuade Cunha from joining United, showing his preference to play for a project under new manager Ruben Amorim rather than chasing immediate European glory.
Amorim, who often deploys a 3-4-2-1 system, is said to be particularly drawn to Cunha’s energetic pressing, creative drive and end product. The Brazilian seemingly offers the perfect fit to provide spark just behind the main striker, offering versatility and direct threat—exactly what United’s blunt attack has lacked.
Arsenal, however, are still in the picture, though the situation is more nuanced. The Gunners’ newly-appointed transfer chief, Andrea Berta, knows Cunha well from their shared days at Atletico Madrid, where Berta helped mastermind several of the club’s key signings. Former Arsenal striker Jeremie Aliadiere recently urged his old club to hijack United’s move, calling Cunha a “perfect first signing” for Berta and praising the Brazilian’s ability to shine despite difficult circumstances at Wolves.
But Arsenal seem to be shifting focus onto Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres instead. Multiple sources indicate that, with Gyokeres giving his approval, Berta plans to prioritise that deal over a chase for Cunha. By doing so, Arsenal may have inadvertently cleared the path for United, Chelsea, and Newcastle—who are all closely monitoring Cunha’s situation.
Berta’s strategy also invites scrutiny. Having replaced Edu after his highly successful tenure, Berta faces intense pressure to deliver world-class reinforcements that fit Arteta’s vision. Aliadiere emphasised the need for alignment: “This is not a one-man job—agreements between manager and Sporting Director are crucial.” How Berta collaborates with Arteta will determine Arsenal’s recruitment success this summer.
Meanwhile, United’s proactive stance under Amorim signals their determination to build a squad capable of quick resurgence. They’ve reportedly drawn up a big-money shortlist including Cunha, as well as other top attacking targets. Unlike previous seasons marked by dithering and confusion, United this year seem more decisive—though much depends on negotiations and rival clubs’ movements.
Ultimately, Matheus Cunha’s impressive season and affordable release clause render him one of this summer’s most compelling transfer stories. His blend of skill, drive, adaptability, and hunger for success make him highly attractive—not just to United and Arsenal, but Europe’s elite. Whether he favours a United side rebuilding under Amorim, Arsenal’s ambitious project, or another bidder entirely, remains an open question.
As the summer window looms, fans eagerly await resolution. Will Arsenal regret letting a known talent slip to a bitter rival? Will United get the spark so desperately needed in attack? Or will a dark horse swoop in and change the script altogether?
Whatever the outcome, one thing’s certain: the Cunha saga will be a defining subplot in the Premier League’s transfer drama this year. Share your thoughts below—where do you think Cunha should go, and which club needs him the most?
