Manchester United may be closing in on a deal for Matheus Cunha, but Newcastle United are not giving up without a fight.
According to Ben Jacobs on X, the Magpies remain firmly in the race to sign the Wolves forward, who is expected to leave Molineux this summer following a breakout campaign in the Premier League. Cunha has scored 15 goals and provided six assists in 30 league appearances — and it is no surprise that multiple top clubs are now vying for his signature.
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United have moved quickest so far, and are said to be close to a verbal agreement with Cunha, with plans to trigger his £62.5 million release clause. But with no deal finalised, Newcastle are still monitoring the situation closely.
Newcastle ready to hijack the main Manchester United transfer target this summer
Eddie Howe is expected to lead a major summer rebuild as Newcastle aim to return to the Champions League and compete for trophies next season. Signing an explosive attacker like Cunha would represent a serious statement of intent from the club’s new sporting director Paul Mitchell.
As confirmed by Ben Jacobs, Newcastle “remain in the race” despite Manchester United’s current lead. The Brazilian is keen to decide his future before the season ends, but with his release clause only active at the end of the campaign, the opportunity is still there for the Magpies to hijack the deal.
Newcastle are not the only challengers. Arsenal have reportedly held fresh talks with Cunha’s representatives, with internal debate ongoing at the Emirates over whether to make a formal move. A meeting between Andrea Berta and Cunha’s camp is also said to be scheduled.
Manchester United are pushing hard to avoid any late surprises — but with Newcastle still circling, the race is far from over.
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At just 25, Cunha offers dynamism, versatility, and end product — traits Eddie Howe highly values. He can operate centrally or off the left, and would offer much-needed support for Alexander Isak in a season that could include European football once again.
With Callum Wilson’s long-term future uncertain and the attack needing fresh energy, Cunha would be a natural fit for the next phase of Newcastle’s project. If the Magpies want to take the next step, this is the calibre of player they must compete for.
And right now, they are doing just that.