Man United have just done something they have not done in the transfer market for seven years

There was once a time where Manchester United had the free rein to hand-pick the Premier League's best talent without any questions asked.

However, their regression over the past 12 years has meant that luxury has somewhat subsided. Much of their recruitment has been of a scattergun approach and their hit record in the transfer market has been low.

Nevertheless, United made it their mission to make a statement on day one of this summer's transfer window, getting a deal over the line for Wolves ace Matheus Cunha on Sunday.

Subject to a visa and registration being granted, he will join the club on a five-year deal, featuring the option of an additional year, after United triggered his £62.5million release clause. The fee will be paid in instalments.

United identified Cunha as one of their top targets several months ago, meaning to have secured his signature less than 24 hours after the transfer window had opened must have been of great comfort to head coach Ruben Amorim, who will be keen to make fast progress this summer.

Cunha is a specialist No.10, meaning he is tailor-made for the role Amorim wants him to fill at Old Trafford. The general expectation is that he will occupy the left-sided No.10 position in Amorim's first-choice XI.

The Brazilian has joined United on the back of a highly successful season at Wolves that saw him score 17 goals and register six assists in 36 appearances across all competitions. Of his 17 goals, 15 were plundered in the Premier League.

Taking his tally from 2023/24 into account, Cunha, 26, will arrive at Old Trafford having scored 27 goals in his last two Premier League campaigns, meaning he possesses a proven record in the division.

In each of the last two summer transfer windows, United