Manchester United could be sweating over their summer transfer prospects after missing out on European football altogether next season. And Matheus Cunha has reportedly decided on whether to make a U-turn on his verbal agreement to join the club this summer in the wake of Wednesday’s Europa League defeat.
The Red Devils needed to lift the trophy to seal a Champions League return through the back door, but that spot went to Tottenham Hotspur after a 1-0 win in Bilbao. With Ruben Amorim’s side potentially finishing as low as 17th in the Premier League, there will be no continental adventures on the agenda next term.
While missing out on Champions League football has its financial ramifications, it also removes an allure that would otherwise be attached to a move to Old Trafford.
Ahead of the all-English affair at the San Mames Stadium, Amorim made it clear that United had different plans depending on whether they were victorious or not.
Chief executive Omar Berrada has also previously insisted that the club will find the means to back the Portuguese head coach regardless of their status.
Questions about whether United’s well-documented pursuit of Wolves forward Cunha is now at risk of collapsing have naturally emerged.
The Brazilian has also been linked with Arsenal and Newcastle United, two clubs set for European action on the other side of the summer.
However, Cunha is reportedly unwavering in his desire to leave Wolves for Manchester – a significant boost for Amorim, who desperately needs to upgrade his firepower.
According to Fabrizio Romano, there will be no issues with the transfer. United have informed Cunha of their plan to trigger his £62.5million release clause.
The 25-year-old, importantly, has indicated that he wants the move regardless of whether Champions League football is on offer or not.
It’s claimed that Cunha will join United once the summer transfer window opens, likely as Amorim’s first recruit of a crucial period.
No Champions League football could impact the M16 giants’ other aspirations, though, not least because of the £100m to £200m they will miss out on for their participation.
Romano has reported that United want a second versatile forward on top of a new striker, with Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres named Amorim’s dream target.
However, with Arsenal among the Swede’s elite suitors, a move to Old Trafford is likely off the cards unless his former coach can work wonders to attract him.
Any hope of splashing big money on another forward, with Lyon’s Rayan Cherki and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo linked, also feels unlikely before player sales.
But Cunha is primed to be the first arrival of what United need to be a transformational summer on and off the pitch.
