INEOS Now in Direct Talks to Bring Premier League Star to Man Utd With Cunha
Manchester United’s summer transfer plans are beginning to take shape under the stewardship of INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, with reports indicating that the club has entered direct talks to secure a double deal involving a Premier League star and Atlético Madrid forward Matheus Cunha. As the Red Devils seek to rebuild their squad and return to the upper echelons of English football, the potential acquisition of two high-profile attacking options could mark a significant turning point for the club.
A New Era Under INEOS
Following a 25% stake acquisition in Manchester United, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS Group has taken control of football operations, including recruitment and infrastructure. With a reputation for calculated investments and long-term planning, INEOS has wasted little time making its mark. The group’s ambition is clear: restore Manchester United to its former glory, competing consistently for domestic titles and Champions League success.
The club’s recruitment strategy has been under intense scrutiny in recent years, with expensive flops and short-term signings failing to deliver sustained progress. With the summer transfer window looming, INEOS and the club’s new sporting leadership are aiming for a more efficient, data-driven, and long-term approach to squad building. The reported dual pursuit of Matheus Cunha and a top Premier League talent signals that Manchester United are ready to act decisively.
Matheus Cunha: The Creative Spark
Matheus Cunha has long been admired across Europe for his dynamic style, technical finesse, and ability to operate across the front line. Currently plying his trade at Wolverhampton Wanderers after a permanent move from Atlético Madrid, the Brazilian forward enjoyed a strong campaign in the Premier League, contributing with both goals and assists in a fluid Wolves attack.
At 25, Cunha is entering his peak years and has adapted well to the physical demands of English football. His ability to link play, drop into midfield, and press from the front makes him an ideal fit for Erik ten Hag’s tactical system, which demands versatility and work rate from its forwards. With the future of Anthony Martial uncertain and Rasmus Højlund still developing, the addition of Cunha would provide depth, creativity, and a different attacking profile to the current squad.
United have reportedly initiated direct talks with Cunha’s representatives and Wolves, with the Midlands club open to negotiating a deal in the region of £40-45 million. Sources close to the negotiations suggest that INEOS are confident in striking an agreement early in the window, allowing the player a full pre-season under Ten Hag.
The Premier League Star: A Statement Signing?
While Matheus Cunha is an exciting addition, it is the identity of the unnamed Premier League star that has sparked even more intrigue. Reports suggest that INEOS is also engaged in direct discussions for a high-profile player currently at a top-six rival. Though the club has yet to publicly confirm the target, several clues have led to speculation about who the mystery player could be.
Among the names being circulated are Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise, West Ham’s Declan Rice (though now at Arsenal, this could suggest another elite-level midfielder), and even Brighton’s Moisés Caicedo, though the latter joined Chelsea only last summer. The most persistent rumors, however, link United with a renewed push for Everton’s Amadou Onana and Brentford’s Ivan Toney — both Premier League proven, physically robust, and highly rated.
Toney, in particular, fits the profile of a United signing under INEOS: technically sound, proven in the league, and capable of offering immediate impact. With his suspension now served and his future at Brentford uncertain, a summer move could be on the cards. INEOS is understood to favor signings with strong mental resilience and tactical intelligence — qualities Toney has demonstrated consistently.
Whoever the mystery player turns out to be, it is evident that INEOS is targeting individuals who can not only elevate the team on the pitch but also help establish a strong dressing-room culture and winning mentality.
Strategic Recruitment: Building for the Future
INEOS’s early moves in the market signal a shift from United’s previous scattergun transfer approach. By entering direct talks with targets and their clubs ahead of the window, the new leadership is aiming to get deals done swiftly and efficiently. It is a method more akin to how clubs like Manchester City and Liverpool have operated in recent years, allowing for better pre-season integration and squad planning.
The dual pursuit of Cunha and a top Premier League performer also reflects a desire to add depth and reduce reliance on a handful of stars. Injuries, inconsistency, and lack of squad rotation have hurt United in past seasons. By recruiting smartly and targeting players who fit a specific tactical blueprint, INEOS is attempting to address those structural flaws.
There is also the added incentive of Financial Fair Play (FFP) constraints. With a limited budget relative to previous seasons and the need to offload surplus players, United must be shrewd in how they negotiate fees and structure contracts. Sources indicate that any major signings will be funded through a combination of player sales and performance-based add-ons — a sustainable model that reduces long-term risk.
What It Means for Ten Hag
For Erik ten Hag, the backing from INEOS and the proactive transfer strategy is a welcome development. While questions remain over his long-term future at the club — especially if United finish outside the top four — it’s clear that the Dutchman is being supported in the current planning process. He has reportedly been involved in identifying targets, with Cunha believed to be high on his personal shortlist due to the player’s tactical flexibility and pressing ability.
Should United secure Cunha and another Premier League star early in the summer, it would allow Ten Hag to fine-tune his system in pre-season and begin the next campaign with momentum. With potential departures including Jadon Sancho, Donny van de Beek, and Harry Maguire, the squad is likely to see significant turnover. The INEOS approach offers Ten Hag a chance to reshape the team in his image — provided he delivers results.
Conclusion
Manchester United’s transfer dealings this summer could define their trajectory for
years to come. Under the direction of INEOS, the
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