Manchester United’s forward Matheus Cunha has promptly shut down any speculation of a potential move to Arsenal with a succinct three-word retort. The query came from an Arsenal supporter in an online video, asking whether Cunha had any intention of heading to north London. His response was straightforward: “No, thank you.”
Cunha, who arrived at Old Trafford from Wolves during United’s substantial £200 million summer spending spree, was the first attacking acquisition, securing a £62.5 million deal. Since then, the Brazilian has netted just once for the Red Devils, finding the back of the net in their 4-2 victory over Brighton, following a promising display against Liverpool.
As of October, Cunha has posted an average match rating of 7.2 on SofaScore, slightly dipping to 7.0 across two fixtures in November. Prior to his switch to United, Cunha was on the radar of several of England’s elite clubs, including Arsenal. However, his definitive “No, thank you” dismisses any notions of a transfer.
Arsenal’s fan ribbed in jest about Cunha’s place in the starting XI, noting how statistically, the forward has been surpassed by the Gunners’ attacking talents like Viktor Gyokeres, Bukayo Saka, and Leandro Trossard this season. Remarkably, Cunha has only managed to score once against Arsenal in his career across four meetings, including a match earlier this season.
The Red Devils are also exploring midfield options, with prospects like Carlos Baleba drawing attention. As Casemiro’s form fluctuates and contracts linger, United look keen on reinforcing their midfield. Baleba, akin in mindset to both Cunha and fellow player Bryan Mbeumo, favours a move to United over the immediate lure of Champions League football. Football insider Ben Jacobs believes United have positioned themselves strategically as frontrunners for Baleba’s signature, with the midfielder’s heart set on donning the red jersey.
In an emerging transfer strategy, it has been suggested that Man Utd should re-evaluate their focus, setting sights on acquiring ‘the one player they truly need’ rather than scattering efforts on multiple targets.
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