Manchester United’s wish to add more strength to their team was heard when they used the £62.5 million release clause for Wolverhampton Wanderers’ main player, Matheus Cunha. It is not just a plan by the club to add more forwards before the 2025 summer transfer window but also a thoughtful move to make their front line stronger with one of the Premier League’s bright young talents. Cunha did well at Wolves and now must take the next step in his career as he joins a major club in world football.
The £62.5m release clause in Matheus Cunha’s contract at Wolves has been triggered by Manchester United, thus bypassing protracted negotiations and allowing the Red Devils to go ahead with the deal as they like. It is to be paid in three installments over two years — the length of Cunha’s contract at Wolves — that has framed this transfer.
Initially, Manchester United had suggested a longer payment plan over five years, which Wolves stood their ground against, and hence the agreement was reached with this three-installment structure. This deal, while structured to ensure a smooth transaction, is also as thrilling as landing a jackpot on Rainbow Riches, capturing the excitement and ambition of both clubs involved
When the release clause was met, he got the nod to do a medical at Manchester United. Personal terms are already in place and the Brazilian will sign a five-year deal at Old Trafford. As has become standard, United want to wrap this up well before the summer transfer window opens on June 1, 2025, ensuring it’s completed in advance.
Cunha’s Impressive Journey at Wolves
Matheus Cunha has been quite an interesting case to follow. The Phantasos signing joined on loan from RB Leipzig in January 2023, and the same summer made the move permanent for almost £43 million.
Since coming on board permanently, Cunha has really impressed. He had his best season yet in 2024-25, netting 17 goals and 6 assists in 34 outings in all competitions. Notably, most of these came in the Premier League, hitting the target 15 times.
Mainly taking the No.10 role, Cunha’s flexibility and style have gleamed under coaches Gary O’Neil and Vitor Pereira. His skill to work in the attacking midfield position while greatly helping in scoring goals has made him a valuable asset to Wolves. This good performance has gotten the notice of clubs like Manchester United who want to add his creativity and finishing skill to their forward line.
Before Wolves, Cunha was at Atlético Madrid, Hertha Berlin, and FC Sion in pretty notable spells. Plus, he played for Brazil 13 times—high potential and pedigree right there.
Manchester United’s Strategy and Context
In conclusion, Cunha’s acquisition by Manchester United forms a key part of their agenda to beef up the team offensively. How fortunate for United is that Cunha is the first addition during the 2025 summer window, with more to follow in months to come.
United are also believed to be in advanced talks to sign Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, who impressed in his debut Premier League season after netting 12 goals. And that’s what makes it a cautious, even financially prudent move by Manchester United, who are threading their way in line with the Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules
The club plans to offset part of Cunha’s transfer cost by selling players currently out on loan, like Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia. These exits will open up both financial resources and team spots, letting United do more in the player trade market.
One point of interest is Cunha’s expected shirt number. It is reported that he has requested the iconic No.10 shirt, which will become available once Marcus Rashford’s departure from the club is finalized. The No.10 shirt at Manchester United carries a significant weight of history, and if Cunha is granted the number, it would mark the beginning of a new era for both him and the club.
Manchester United moves fast to complete the deal for Cunha, keeping in mind its wider monetary plan. By using the release clause, United skips long talks with Wolves that could have taken much time—perhaps making other transfers harder.
The three-part payment plan helps Manchester United spread out the cost, easing financial pressure while still securing a player of Cunha’s quality. Closing the deal before the window opens helps them avoid competition and ensures Cunha is available for the start of their pre-season training.
Activation of Matheus Cunha’s £62.5 million release clause is what Manchester United has done to signal, quite clearly, their intentions for the future. Structured in installments, this deal allows United to bring in the Brazilian forward while managing their finances effectively.
Since Matheus Cunha’s performances at Wolves have proven his ability to translate his skills well at the Premier League level, his addition to Old Trafford will add both depth and creativity to Manchester United’s attacking arsenal.
