
Matheus Cunha Deal Done, Gyökeres Transfer, Bruno Fernandes to Saudi? Manchester United In and Out This Summer as Rúben Amorim Plans for Biggest Clear-Out of the Summer
Manchester United’s summer is shaping up to be one of the most dramatic in recent memory. With new sporting leadership in place and a potential managerial overhaul on the cards, Old Trafford is bracing for a seismic shift. Following another underwhelming season, United’s hierarchy—now steered by INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s sporting overhaul—are prepared to ring in the changes. As Portuguese tactician Rúben Amorim looks increasingly likely to take over the reins from Erik ten Hag, fans are witnessing the early stages of what could be United’s most aggressive squad overhaul in over a decade.
Already, major developments are underway. Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha is reportedly a done deal, while United are eyeing a blockbuster move for Sporting Lisbon’s goal machine Viktor Gyökeres. Meanwhile, the club captain Bruno Fernandes is attracting big-money interest from Saudi Arabia, creating further uncertainty around the spine of the squad. With both incomings and outgoings expected in volume, United are about to embark on a summer of upheaval that could redefine their trajectory.
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Matheus Cunha: The First Domino Falls
The first confirmed move of the summer is the acquisition of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers. Valued at around £50 million, the versatile Brazilian forward has impressed with his dynamism, flair, and work rate in the Premier League, becoming a standout figure at Wolves. Cunha brings with him a unique blend of Brazilian technique and modern attacking versatility, capable of operating across the frontline and even in deeper creative roles.
This move is symbolic—it marks United’s early intention to shift toward a more fluid, attacking model, likely mirroring the style seen at Sporting under Amorim. Cunha’s ability to press aggressively and link up play suggests he’s being brought in not just for goals, but to reshape United’s attacking identity. It’s also a statement of decisiveness, contrasting the slow, reactionary market moves of previous windows.
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Viktor Gyökeres: The New Number 9?
Beyond Cunha, Manchester United’s interest in Viktor Gyökeres has emerged as one of the most talked-about transfer stories of the summer. The Swedish striker has had a phenomenal season with Sporting Lisbon, scoring over 30 goals in all competitions and establishing himself as one of Europe’s most lethal frontmen. His physicality, intelligent movement, and finishing prowess make him a perfect fit for the Premier League.
Gyökeres has a release clause believed to be around €100 million, and while United are hesitant to pay that sum outright, negotiations with Sporting could include player exchanges or performance-based clauses to lower the initial fee. If Amorim takes over, this transfer becomes even more realistic, given the existing player-manager rapport. Gyökeres would offer United a reliable and proven focal point in attack—something they’ve lacked since the inconsistent form and injuries of Anthony Martial and the adaptation struggles of Rasmus Højlund.
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Bruno Fernandes: Shock Exit to Saudi Arabia?
Perhaps the most surprising story of the summer revolves around club captain Bruno Fernandes. Reports have surfaced suggesting that Saudi Arabian clubs—most notably Al Nassr and Al Hilal—are preparing record-breaking offers for the Portuguese midfielder. With his 29th birthday approaching and a desire to continue playing at the highest level, Fernandes faces a major career decision. United, too, are contemplating the financial and sporting implications of such a move.
While Fernandes remains one of United’s most influential players—both in terms of output and leadership—the club may be tempted to cash in if a bid north of £80 million materializes. His potential departure would be emotional for fans but could also pave the way for a generational reset in midfield, particularly if Amorim is looking to build a new tactical structure not entirely reliant on a free-roaming playmaker.
United would likely seek a creative replacement immediately, with names like João Neves, Xavi Simons, and even Frenkie de Jong linked once more. However, Bruno’s exit would be about more than just numbers—it would mark the symbolic end of the Solskjær era and the beginning of a new United identity.
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Rúben Amorim: The Architect of the Overhaul
All these moves point toward one unmissable reality: Rúben Amorim is not just a candidate—he is the front-runner to lead United into a new era. After narrowly missing out on the Liverpool job, Amorim has remained open to a Premier League switch. His attacking philosophy, man-management skills, and track record of developing young talent make him a tantalizing fit for United’s new long-term sporting project.
Amorim’s 3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1 system demands fluid wing-backs, disciplined midfielders, and technically gifted forwards. This tactical shift will inevitably lead to a clear-out of players who do not fit the system. Players like Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Harry Maguire, Scott McTominay, and even Christian Eriksen could be among those allowed—or even encouraged—to leave. Meanwhile, players like Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho, and Højlund could be developed into cornerstones of the rebuild.
Amorim is also known for trusting young players, suggesting that academy prospects such as Willy Kambwala, Dan Gore, and Omari Forson might get increased first-team opportunities.
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Potential Outgoings: The Big Clear-Out
United are expected to offload at least 8–10 senior players this summer. Alongside those already mentioned, others who could be heading out the door include:
Jadon Sancho – Still exiled from the first team; a permanent move away seems inevitable.
Mason Greenwood – A decision on his future is pending, but a sale appears likely.
Donny van de Beek – Has no future at the club and is expected to be moved permanently.
Victor Lindelöf – Could attract interest from Italy or Spain.
Casemiro – Interest from Saudi Arabia remains strong, and United may offload his huge wages.
This would free up significant funds and wage space to support Amorim’s recruitment plans.
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What’s Next for Manchester United?
The months ahead promise upheaval but also opportunity. With INEOS overseeing a more data-driven and strategic approach to recruitment, and with Amorim (potentially) leading the footballing side, United could finally break away from the short-termism that’s plagued them since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.
If executed well, this rebuild could mirror Arsenal’s transformation under Mikel Arteta—painful in parts, but ultimately rewarding. The arrivals of Cunha and possibly Gyökeres signal a shift toward youth, energy, and purpose. The potential sale of Bruno Fernandes may hurt in the short term but could finance the next generation of stars.
What’s clear is that this is not just another summer window. It’s a turning point. For the first time in years, Manchester United are not just reacting to their problems—they’re proactively planning for a future that looks different. Whether they succeed will depend on execution, but the ambition is finally aligned with the expectations.
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Stay tuned. This summer at Old Trafford is only just getting started.
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