Ruben Amorim will have to navigate a challenge on three fronts with a threadbare Manchester United attack after INEOS failed to add a striker to their ranks in January.
Following Marcus Rashford’s loan departure to Aston Villa, the head coach is left with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee as his only recognised striking options.
The Dane’s goalless run has entered its 13th game now with the Portuguese far from impressed with the United No 9 with a summer departure potentially on the cards.
The Netherlands international has fared little better, managing a mere four goals in 35 appearances. Despite Amorim’s wishes of adding another body in attack, INEOS saw three separate deals for forwards collapse on deadline day.
United need a goalscorer
Matheus Cunha was heavily linked with a move to the Theatre of Dreams following his star turn for Wolverhampton Wanderers against Amorim’s side in December.
Initially, it seemed a parting of ways was on the cards following talks of a rift with new boss Vitor Pereira. But the Brazilian has since signed a new four-and-half year deal with the West Midlands outfit.
But that has not stopped rumours of an exit from circulating with Football Insider claiming the 25-year-old remains intent on leaving in the summer for a big club as he seeks to play in the Champions League.
Which is why his new contract includes a release clause worth £62.5 million, which will net Wolves a healthy profit on their initial investment of £44 million.
“Matheus Cunha is keen to play for a bigger club despite signing a new Wolves contract, sources have told Football Insider.
“That deal includes a £62.5million release clause which has safeguarded the 25-year-old’s value to Wolves, who have struggled financially in recent seasons.
“Sources say there will “no doubt” be renewed interest from top Premier League clubs in the summer window if Cunha can maintain his impressive form in the second half of this season.
Cunha release clause
“It is believed Cunha has demanded the release clause to give him the opportunity to make such a move as he has big ambitions and wants to play Champions League football.”
The former Atletico Madrid star has 11 goals and four assists this term and it remains to be seen if United reactivate their interest once the summer window opens.
Cunha can play up front as well as a No 10 while he can also do a job out wide and Amorim will take the final call regarding whether he wants a versatile forward or a ruthless striker like Viktor Gyokeres.
Arsenal are seen as frontrunners but if the Brazil international continues to shine in the same manner, plenty of other big clubs are expected to enter the fray.
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
