Liverpool’s interest in Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha has been a topic of considerable speculation in recent months. The Brazilian striker has showcased impressive performances in the Premier League, making him a potential target for top-tier clubs seeking to bolster their attacking options.
Cunha’s journey in English football began in January 2023 when he joined Wolves on loan from Atlético Madrid. His initial impact was notable, and the move became permanent in the summer of 2023. Over the subsequent seasons, Cunha’s contributions have been significant, with 15 goals and six assists in 33 Premier League appearances during the 2024/25 campaign. His versatility in the attacking third has drawn attention from several Premier League clubs, including Liverpool.
Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, has publicly acknowledged Cunha’s quality. Ahead of a match against Wolves in February 2025, Slot remarked, “Matheus Cunha is a quality player and he has the quality to play for one of the top five teams in England.”
Despite this recognition, Liverpool’s pursuit of Cunha faced challenges. Reports indicate that the club decided to step away from the deal for several reasons. Firstly, Liverpool felt well-stocked in the forward positions, with players like Cody Gakpo, Luis Díaz, Diogo Jota, and Mohamed Salah already in the squad. Secondly, there were uncertainties about how Cunha would fit into Liverpool’s tactical setup under Slot. Lastly, the club’s primary focus shifted towards securing Florian Wirtz, a highly-rated midfielder from the Bundesliga, making him the number one priority.
As a result, Liverpool withdrew from the race for Cunha, allowing Manchester United to secure his services. The striker’s move to Old Trafford was finalized, with Cunha expected to play a pivotal role in United’s attacking lineup. His arrival was seen as a strategic acquisition to enhance United’s offensive capabilities.
In summary, while Liverpool recognized Matheus Cunha’s potential and quality, strategic decisions regarding squad composition and tactical fit led them to prioritize other targets, ultimately allowing Manchester United to benefit from Cunha’s talents.
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