Matheus Cunha Joins Manchester United in £62.5m Transfer — Takes No.10 Shirt from Marcus Rashford
Manchester United have completed the signing of Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolves in a £62.5 million deal, officially announced on Sunday afternoon. The 26-year-old has penned a five-year contract until June 2030, with an option for an additional 12 months, making him a central part of the club’s long-term attacking plans.
🔴 Cunha Takes Rashford’s No.10 Shirt Amid Uncertain Future
In a significant development, club legend Rio Ferdinand revealed that Cunha will be handed the iconic No.10 shirt, currently worn by Marcus Rashford, sparking speculation about the academy graduate’s future at Old Trafford.
“I’m hearing he’s taking the No.10 shirt, which was Rashford’s shirt,” Ferdinand said via TikTok. “What does that mean for Marcus Rashford? I don’t know.”
Cunha previously wore the No.10 at Wolves and Hertha Berlin, and his affinity for the number is well known. The decision to give it to him at United suggests the club may be planning for life beyond Rashford, who has been the subject of transfer speculation in recent months.
🔁 Rashford Transfer Latest: Villa, Barcelona Interested
Rashford, 26, has endured a turbulent season, and reports claim Manchester United are demanding £40 million from clubs interested in signing him. Aston Villa have the option to trigger that price, though there’s no indication they intend to act.
Meanwhile, Barcelona have opened talks with Rashford’s agent and brother, Dwaine Maynard, but are understood to prefer a loan move rather than a permanent transfer due to financial constraints.
🗣 Ferdinand Praises Cunha Signing
Rio Ferdinand, a vocal supporter of Cunha’s talents, lauded the transfer, highlighting the forward’s proven Premier League experience and impactful performances — including against Manchester United themselves.
“He knows the Premier League, so he doesn’t need any adaptation time,” Ferdinand explained.
“Seventeen goals, six assists in 36 games for a Wolves team — that’s impressive. He was slicing through Man United like a hot knife through butter.”
Ferdinand added that Cunha had been on his personal “shopping list” for United targets, citing his pace, versatility, and existing experience in English football.
📍 Arrival Confirmed After Hotel Sighting
Cunha was spotted with his family at The Lowry Hotel in Manchester ahead of the official unveiling. He is now expected to link up with the Brazilian national team before returning to the UK for pre-season training after a short holiday.
📊 Matheus Cunha – 2024/25 Season (Wolves)
| Stat | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 36 |
| Goals | 17 |
| Assists | 6 |
| Shirt Number | 10 |
| Previous Clubs | Hertha Berlin, Atlético Madrid, RB Leipzig |
🔍 What Does This Mean for United?
With Cunha’s arrival and the symbolic transfer of the No.10 shirt, Manchester United are signaling a possible changing of the guard in attack. While Rashford’s future remains undecided, the club appears to be leaning into fresh energy and direction under its new structure.
Cunha’s signing brings not just a proven Premier League attacker to United, but a player with ambition, character, and a deep appreciation for the club. If he hits the ground running, the Red Devils might have found their next attacking talisman — and possibly a new face of the No.10 legacy at Old Trafford.
Matheus Cunha Joins Manchester United in £62.5m Transfer — Takes No.10 Shirt from Marcus Rashford