Man Utd working to finalise agreement with Wolves talisman

Manchester United are progressing in contract talks with Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha ahead of a possible summer transfer, reports have revealed.

Cunha has openly admitted he wants to take "the next step" this summer and, after racking up 14 goals and four assists in 28 games for a struggling Wolves side, is expected to have no shortage of offers.

United have been among the leading suitors for Cunha, who is also attracting interest from Arsenal, but it emerged earlier this month that Newcastle United are ready to compete for the Brazilian, whose contract includes a release clause of £62.5m.

It is claimed that Cunha may have been enticed by the prospect of playing a leading role in United's side. While primarily known as a central striker, most of the 25-year-old's success this season has come in one of the attacking midfield spots in a 3-4-2-1 setup which is incredibly similar to that of United head coach Ruben Amorim, who has publicly praised Cunha's output and versatility.

Funding his transfer fee, however, could be a challenge. Wolves want Cunha's £62.5m release clause paid in full, although The Athletic note they could be convinced to agree to receive the full sum in instalments.

Selling players is likely to be crucial to United's transfer budget but club officials hope to raise more than that sum through the sales of on-loan trio Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Antony.

Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap is a key target alongside Cunha, with his £30m relegation release clause understandably boosting his appeal, while Amorim also wants a new goalkeeper this summer.

Further transfer plans will only be decided once United learn whether they will be playing Champions League football next season. The Red Devils will not qualify through their Premier League performance but could pocket over £80m through winning the Europa League and sealing a spot in the Champions League. They face Athletic Club in the semi-finals in the coming weeks, with either Tottenham Hotspur or Bodo/Glimt awaiting in the final.

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