Matheus Cunha, the standout forward for Wolverhampton Wanderers, has become Manchester United’s top target to fill the prestigious number 10 role at Old Trafford.
Cunha impressed throughout the season with Wolves, netting 15 goals and contributing six assists in Premier League play.
According to well-known journalist Fabrizio Romano, Cunha has agreed to a five-year contract with Manchester United, which includes an option to extend the deal by another year.
Wolves have accepted Manchester United’s offer to pay the £62.5 million release clause in instalments, clearing the way for Cunha’s move.
The Brazilian attacker is expected to take over the iconic number 10 jersey, which has been worn by Marcus Rashford since 2018.
Rashford, a product of United’s academy and a long-time fan favorite, is poised to leave the club this summer, creating a vacancy for the coveted shirt number.
Cunha’s arrival will likely shape the creative dynamic at Manchester United, as he is anticipated to share playmaking responsibilities with Bruno Fernandes, who is expected to remain despite reported interest from Saudi Pro League clubs.
This reshuffling could significantly impact the future of young winger Alejandro Garnacho.
With Cunha and Fernandes occupying the central creative roles, Garnacho’s opportunities for playing time may diminish considerably.
Recent developments suggest that Garnacho might not be part of Manchester United’s plans moving forward.
He was notably left out of the squad for a recent match against Aston Villa, and manager Ruben Amorim has reportedly encouraged him to consider a move elsewhere to further his career.
Manchester United appear ready to listen to offers for Garnacho, who remains a valuable asset as an academy graduate.
Any transfer involving him would result in a straightforward financial profit for the club, as there are no previous sell-on clauses or complex arrangements.
The club has reportedly set a price tag of around £65 million for Garnacho, a figure reflecting his potential and growing reputation.
Several top European clubs, including Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, Napoli, and Juventus, have reportedly shown interest in acquiring the promising winger.
In summary, Cunha’s imminent arrival signals a major shift in Manchester United’s attacking lineup, with Cunha expected to assume the creative number 10 role and Rashford departing.
Meanwhile, Garnacho’s future hangs in the balance as the club plans to revamp its squad and capitalize on the transfer market.
The moves represent a strategic effort by United to reinforce their offensive options while managing the delicate transition of their young talents.
