Manchester United Transfer News: Matheus Cunha Update & Potential Alternatives

Hugo van Dijk

5 min read

Post on May 20, 2025

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The Matheus Cunha Situation

Current Status & Likelihood of Transfer

The transfer saga surrounding Matheus Cunha and Manchester United is ongoing. Reports from reputable sources like ESPN and The Athletic suggest Atlético Madrid are open to selling the Brazilian forward, but only for the right price. The reported asking price is believed to be in the region of €30-€40 million, a figure that may prove a stumbling block for United. Other clubs, including some in the Premier League, are also reportedly interested, increasing competition for his signature. Cunha's current contract with Atlético Madrid runs until 2026, giving the Spanish club a strong negotiating position.

• Current club situation: Fringe player at Atlético Madrid, lacking consistent first-team opportunities.
• Reported transfer fee: €30-€40 million.
• Rumored interest from other clubs: Several Premier League and other European clubs are reportedly monitoring the situation.
• Player's contract details: Contract expires in 2026.

Cunha's Strengths and Weaknesses

Matheus Cunha is a versatile attacker capable of playing as a striker or on either wing. His strengths lie in his pace, direct running, and ability to finish chances. He possesses good technical skills and can be a handful for defenders. However, consistency has been a concern throughout his career. His defensive contributions are also considered to be an area needing improvement.

• Key stats: While his numbers vary across seasons, his goals-per-game ratio is respectable, but consistency is lacking.
• Playing style analysis: A fast, direct runner who is comfortable on the ball and can operate both centrally and out wide.
• Comparison to existing United players: He could offer a different dynamic compared to Marcus Rashford, Antony, or Jadon Sancho.
• Suitability for Ten Hag's system: His versatility could be an asset in a system that often demands quick transitions and dynamic attacking play.

Would Cunha Be a Good Fit for Manchester United?

Signing Cunha would offer Manchester United additional attacking firepower and squad depth. His versatility is a significant plus, allowing him to play across the front line. However, his inconsistency and relatively high price tag represent potential drawbacks. Competition for places in the United squad is already fierce, and Cunha would need to prove himself to earn regular starts.

• Impact on the squad: He would add competition and depth to the attacking options.
• Potential position: Could play as a striker, right winger or even as a left winger.
• Competition for places: Would face competition from Rashford, Sancho, Antony, and potentially other new signings.

Potential Alternatives to Matheus Cunha

Alternative Striker Targets

If the Cunha deal falls through, Manchester United could explore several alternative striker targets.

• Player A: Victor Osimhen (Napoli): A prolific goalscorer with incredible pace and strength. However, his transfer fee would likely be very high. Strengths: Goalscoring ability, pace, physicality. Weaknesses: High transfer fee, injury history. Suitability for Manchester United: Could be a world-class addition but comes at a significant cost.

• Player B: Ivan Toney (Brentford): A strong and clinical striker, proficient in the air and technically gifted. However, his recent betting ban is a factor to consider. Strengths: Aerial prowess, clinical finishing, link-up play. Weaknesses: Recent betting ban, not as quick as some other options. Suitability for Manchester United: A proven Premier League goalscorer.

• Player C: Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig): A young, highly-rated striker with enormous potential. His price tag might still be relatively reasonable. Strengths: Young and with great potential, clinical finishing, great physical attributes. Weaknesses: Relatively untested at the highest level. Suitability for Manchester United: A long term prospect for the future.

Alternative Winger Targets

Manchester United could also explore winger options to fill the attacking void if they are unable to secure Cunha’s services.

• Player A: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Napoli): A supremely talented winger with incredible dribbling skills and creativity, but likely to be very expensive. Strengths: Dribbling, creativity, goal threat. Weaknesses: High transfer fee, potential adaptation challenges. Suitability for Manchester United: A potential game-changer but unlikely to be available.

• Player B: Federico Chiesa (Juventus): A pacey and skillful winger with a proven track record in Serie A. Strengths: Pace, skill, direct running. Weaknesses: Injury record. Suitability for Manchester United: A good option if his fitness can be guaranteed.

Conclusion

The Manchester United transfer saga surrounding Matheus Cunha is far from over, with various factors influencing a potential move. While Cunha presents an exciting attacking option, several compelling alternatives exist should the deal prove too difficult to finalize. Ultimately, the decision will hinge on factors such as transfer fees, player availability, and Erik ten Hag's tactical preferences. Stay tuned for further updates on Manchester United transfer news, as the race to secure key attacking reinforcements continues. Keep checking back for more in-depth analysis on Manchester United transfer news and updates on potential signings!