Mikel Arteta was reportedly rejected by one Red Devils target. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Arsenal’s rumoured attempts to pip Manchester United to one of their priority summer transfer targets were unsuccessful.
Indeed, the Gunners are said to have tried their luck in convincing Matheus Cunha of a move to the Emirates in the coming months, though the Wolverhampton Wanderers talisman only has eyes for Old Trafford.
The claims come via Goal Brasil journalist Valentin Furlan, and he adds that the Red Devils are now on the verge of sealing a verbal agreement and personal terms with Cunha.
🚨EXCL | #ManUtd deal for Matheus #Cunha expected to hit €80M — €74M clause + €6M in extras.
ℹ️ Despite #Arsenal’s late approach — as reported — talks with #Wolves‘ ST keep moving forward.
↪️ Verbal agreement close, final steps on personal terms underway. #Transfers pic.twitter.com/eURaC2c0QI
— Valentin Furlan (@valentinfurlan_) May 13, 2025
The latest on United’s Cunha pursuit
Cunha’s £62.5 million release clause makes any summer move considerably more straightforward than if it had not been included. He put pen to paper on a four-and-a-half-year extension back in February, granting the Molineux faithful some hope that he’d be staying beyond the current campaign despite the widespread interest he’d been receiving.
However, it soon became clear that he only agreed the terms to allow the inclusion of his buyout clause, which also allows Wolves to reinvest the funds and acquire his successor/s early on in the window.
Why INEOS are so adamant about signing Cunha
The 25-year-old has been leaning towards a United switch irrespective of whether they seal Champions League qualification with a Europa League final victory on May 21. He’s poised to play an integral role under Amorim, who’ll be chomping at the bit to finally see his attacking contingent bolstered sufficiently by INEOS.
In the Premier League this term, Cunha has been one of the standout performers, having notched a hugely impressive 15 goals and six assists thus far. His prolific efforts have proven invaluable to Wolves escaping the drop following a turbulent start to 2024/2025.
Arsenal, meanwhile, will have to scour the market for alternatives as they look to put an end to an unwanted five-season trophyless streak.
