Liverpool boss Arne Slot has acknowledged that Manchester United could be securing a top-notch player in Matheus Cunha, should they manage to snap up the Brazilian.
The Wolverhampton Wanderers striker has had a standout season, despite his team’s struggle against relegation. Cunha hasn’t been shy about his wish to leave Molineux, expressing his intention to “follow my dreams” in a now-removed Instagram post. The former Atletico Madrid man has attracted attention from several of England’s elite clubs, with United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Aston Villa all reportedly interested in acquiring his services.
It’s believed that Cunha’s agents are open to United’s interest, which could potentially see his weekly wage double to £180,000 ($240K), following the club’s initial approach earlier this week. Given Slot‘s previous admiration for the South American, he may feel a twinge of disappointment if the Reds fail to secure him.
Back in February, when asked about Cunha – who has netted 15 goals and provided five assists in 28 Premier League games this season – Slot praised: “Matheus Cunha is a quality player.
“He has the quality to play for one of the top five teams in England. If you go to the Dutch league and look at the team in 17th place, there is no player who could play for Ajax, PSV or Feyenoord.”
Just days after Slot’s comments, Cunha managed to score at Molineux, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win, as goals from Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah led the Reds to a 2-1 victory.
According to the Manchester Evening News, United is reportedly considering moves for Cunha and Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap. However, the report also suggests that United will need to offload some of their current forwards, with loaned-out stars Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Antony likely to be sold.
United’s lackluster attack means they’re on track to end the Premier League season with a negative goal difference for the second year running. It’s believed that Cunha has a £62.5 million ($82.2M) release clause in his contract with the Midlanders.
If United were to match that amount, it would mark the first time they’ve splashed out more than $80M on a player since Sir Jim Ratcliffe became a minority owner. United have had a tough run in the Premier League this season.
They’re poised to finish in the bottom half of the table for the first time in the Premier League era. Their only shot at redemption lies in the Europa League, where a win would guarantee them a spot in next season’s Champions League.
