Manchester United suffered a 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest at the City Ground in their latest Premier League outing, continuing a worrying downward spiral in form. With 13 league losses already this season, frustration is mounting among the fanbase as the team continues to fall short of expectations.
According to Give Me Sport, United are considering triggering the release clause of Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Matheus Cunha. The Red Devils are in urgent need of attacking reinforcements, with both Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee struggling to deliver consistent goals. A lack of firepower up front has been a persistent issue, and Cunha could offer the clinical edge the team desperately needs.
Nottingham Forest can crack the deal for Manchester United target Matheus Cunha
Now, Manchester United have suffered a setback in their pursuit of Matheus Cunha. Finance expert Stefan Borson told Football Insider that Nottingham Forest have the financial capability to sign the Brazilian striker in the summer. Currently sitting third in the Premier League table, Forest are on course to qualify for the UEFA Champions League next season.
With a £62.5 million release clause in Cunha’s contract, the deal is seen as a worthwhile investment for Forest, especially with the opportunity to reach at least the Round of 16 via the Champions League playoff round.
Nottingham Forest are well placed to land Manchester United target Matheus Cunha.
Nottingham Forest can crack the deal for Manchester United target Matheus Cunha (Via X)
“For Nottingham Forest, I would think Champions League is probably worth a minimum of £75million next season in Uefa prize money. That’s the four games. Four home games, eight games in the league, potentially two more in the playoff. Then if you can win the play-off, they would potentially have a round of 16 game. You wouldn’t think they’d get beyond the round of 16, but even with that it’s £75million to maybe £90million.
Then on top of that, maybe there’s some additional commercial revenue. I think all things being equal, they will be able to afford Cunha. The question will be what they need to do to their overall squad to manage a season of Champions League. That is going to be a big change for Nottingham Forest.”
Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider.
Matheus Cunha has scored 13 goals in 26 matches so far in the Premier League 2024/2025 season. Overall, his goals scored per 90 minutes is 0.54. Moreover, Cunha’s total G/A is 17 for this season. The Brazilian’s goal involvement equates to 0.71 per 90 minutes. His non-penalty xG per 90 minutes is 0.57.
Cunha is a real gem on the pitch, electric, versatile, and an absolute nightmare for defenders. The Brazilian forward has a natural ability to influence games, whether he’s leading the line or dropping into pockets of space as a No. 10. His dribbling is effortless, gliding through tight spaces with quick feet and a low center of gravity, making him a constant threat in the final third.
More Manchester United News
Cunha also brings strength to his game—able to hold off challenges with ease. He’s a relentless presser, constantly buzzing around to win the ball back, and possesses excellent vision for threading killer passes. While he’s not yet the most clinical finisher, his energy, flair, and versatility make him a standout talent in the Premier League.
Wolves will undoubtedly do all they can to keep hold of one of their star players. However, with Nottingham Forest likely to secure Champions League football and Manchester United struggling for form, Cunha could be tempted by the opportunity to be the main man in Europe’s top competition with Forest. Whether United manage to pull off the transfer remains to be seen, but missing out on the Brazilian could prove to be a major setback for the Old Trafford club as they look to rebuild for next season, not to mention a blow to their reputation.