After a season marred by blunt attacking displays, Manchester United are eyeing a summer shake-up. The club is lining up deals for Matheus Cunha and Liam Delap, hoping the pair can breathe new life into a forward line that has barely averaged a goal per match.
The likely cost? Around £92.5 million. And to foot the bill, United are planning to sell three of their current attackers — Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Antony, all of whom are currently out on loan.
United have scored just 38 times in 33 league games this season. The return is not only underwhelming but has left them with a negative goal difference — a damning stat for a side that once prided itself on attacking flair.
Cunha, currently at Wolves, has caught the eye of head coach Ruben Amorim, who wants a new playmaker to fit into his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. Speaking ahead of last week’s 1-0 defeat to Wolves, Amorim didn’t hold back in his praise.
“Matheus brings creativity and fight,” Amorim said. “He’s the sort of player who lifts the tempo — that’s what we need.”
Cunha, 25, could reportedly double his £90,000-a-week wages if he joins United. Delap, 22, is seen as a promising long-term prospect — a nod to United’s growing preference for younger, hungrier players.
Both strikers have release clauses. Delap’s £30 million clause is expected to be activated when Ipswich, his current side, are officially relegated. Cunha’s stands at £62.5 million, which was written into the deal he signed with Wolves in January.
To fund both moves, United is eyeing a fire sale.
Rashford could be sold to Aston Villa, who have an option to buy him for £40 million. A source close to the England international told the Manchester Evening News last week that Rashford has “never been happier” than he is now at Villa Park.
Sancho is on loan at Chelsea, who are reportedly obliged to make his move permanent for between £20 and £25 million. There is chatter that the London club could back out and pay a penalty fee, though nothing has been confirmed.
Meanwhile, Antony is enjoying a revival in Spain with Real Betis. United are believed to be seeking at least £32.5 million for the Brazilian to avoid recording a loss under Premier League financial regulations.
Under new CEO Omar Berrada, United is trying to stay within budget. Last summer, the club refused to spend more than £60 million on any single player. A similar approach is expected this time — hence the need to sell before they can buy.
Still, the moves are not without risk.
Cunha’s season has been blighted by suspensions — six games missed due to a red card and a scuffle with a security guard. His temperament may give United pause, especially given the scrutiny their signings face.
And Delap, for all his promise, is untested at the top level for a full season. United fans remember previous gambles that haven’t paid off.
But Amorim is backing his instincts. He sees Cunha as a natural No.10 and is ready to move Bruno Fernandes deeper into midfield to accommodate him. Amad Diallo, who has impressed in that advanced role, remains injured with an ankle issue.
The summer ahead promises to be a busy one. Whether United’s plans will spark a revival or prove another false dawn remains to be seen.
But one thing’s clear — change is coming. And fast.
