Manchester United are reportedly leading the chase for Wolves forward Matheus Cunha, but club legend Paul Scholes has raised concerns over whether the Brazilian would thrive at Old Trafford amid ongoing struggles.
United have opened talks with Wolves for the 25-year-old attacker, who has attracted interest from Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea. Cunha, who joined Wolves from Atletico Madrid in 2023, has been a standout performer in a struggling side, scoring 17 goals this season. Despite signing a new deal in January, the Brazil international has a £62.5 million release clause that can be triggered this summer.
While incoming manager Ruben Amorim is keen to bolster the squad and views Cunha as a top target, Scholes expressed reservations about the club’s current state being suitable for new signings.
“Cunha has the attributes Amorim wants — he’s athletic and technically gifted,” Scholes told TNT Sports. “But I worry about anyone coming into United right now. The team lacks identity and quality. Even the best players in the world would struggle here.”
Scholes also questioned Cunha’s best role, asking whether he’s a natural centre-forward or better suited out wide — an issue compounded by United’s lack of tactical clarity.
United’s Premier League season has been labeled a disaster by Scholes, with the team languishing in 14th place after 34 games. Though they’ve reached the Europa League semi-finals, Scholes insists European success won’t mask domestic failure.
“Winning the Europa League won’t save this season,” he said. “The league is your benchmark. United have been awful — there’s no getting around it.”
Manchester United face a tough semi-final against Athletic Bilbao, currently fourth in La Liga, while Tottenham face Bodo-Glimt in the other tie. With hopes resting on Europe, the pressure to deliver results and clarity in the summer window has never been higher at Old Trafford.