Exclusive: Man United in ‘very advanced’ talks to sign Matheus Cunha
Matheus Cunha’s move to Man United is at a very advanced stage despite their failure to qualify for the Champions League.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed what sources have told him about Cunha’s deal.
The 25-year-old remains open to the move even without the offer of playing European football next season as Ruben Amorim has a clear plan for his role.
Football Insider revealed on 30 April that Cunha gave Man United encouragement over the deal despite their on-field performances in recent weeks.
Sources say the deal has now been wrapped up and will be announced “soon” after his £62.5million release clause was triggered in recent weeks.
Man United closing in on move to sign Matheus Cunha
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 19 May that Wolves have begun preparing for Cunha’s departure in the transfer window.
The forward was left out of their squad during the 4-2 defeat Crystal Palace on Tuesday (20 May) as the club plan to move on without him.
O’Rourke explained that United are now pushing towards the deal’s completion and it has not been impacted by their Europa League defeat.
“That deal is still on,” he told Football Insider.
“The outcome of the Europa League final isn’t going to have any real bearing.
“The move is very well advanced between Cunha and United.
“The player is more than happy to make the move to Old Trafford despite no European football being on offer at Old Trafford.
“He has his sights set on joining Ruben Amorim’s side, and Amorim made him his top target to play as one of his number tens.
“They’ve got it wrapped up and they’re going to announce it soon.”
Ruben Amorim sack decision made at Old Trafford
While United continue to make plans for the summer transfer window, they must make sure they get it right as they aim to back Amorim.
Football Insider revealed on 23 May that Amorim is unlikely to be sacked by United in the wake of the Europa League defeat, but will come under added pressure.
Instead, he will be backed in the transfer window in a bid to provide him with players who better fit his system and style of play.
This comes after Football Insider revealed Amorim is expected to be Man United manager at the start of next season regardless of the outcome of the final.
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