Man Utd Target Cunha, Delap and Semenyo in Summer Transfer Rebuild | OneFootball

Major Moves Incoming at Old Trafford: United Eye Summer Overhaul

Big Ambitions and Bigger Spending

Manchester United are preparing for a seismic summer in the transfer market, with a sweeping rebuild centred around their forward line. According to TeamTalk, three attacking additions are on the agenda — and two of those deals are already progressing. The club’s shortlist has now been narrowed to Antoine Semenyo and Bryan Mbeumo for the third and final attacking signing, with Bournemouth’s Semenyo edging ahead.

This intent aligns with the broader strategy handed to new manager Rúben Amorim. The Portuguese tactician has been granted authority to reshape the squad, and a Europa League triumph this month would both enhance his credentials and inject up to £85 million in Champions League revenue — a vital boost to fund this attacking revamp.

“Winning the Europa League will go a long way to determining the scope and scale of United’s plans. Success in that competition will secure entry into next year’s Champions League and generate around £85m in extra income.”

Cunha and Delap Deals in Motion

The first name expected through the doors is Matheus Cunha, with the Brazilian reportedly giving a provisional green light for a move. “Cunha has already partially approved a transfer to Man Utd who are ready to pay his £62.5m release clause.” Despite interest from Arsenal — and a scheduled meeting with their sporting director Andrea Berta — Cunha appears to be prioritising United.

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What stands out is Cunha’s willingness to commit regardless of whether Champions League football is on offer. That kind of attitude could endear him quickly to the Stretford End.

Hot on Cunha’s heels is Liam Delap, the Ipswich Town forward whose remarkable season has turned heads at Carrington. “Delap is Man Utd’s No 1 striker target and via a clause in his contract, can be signed for just £30m.” But Champions League qualification could be decisive — Delap is reportedly holding out for elite European competition before finalising any move.

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All eyes, then, will be on Bilbao this May 21, when United face Tottenham in a Europa League decider that could influence both Delap’s future and United’s transfer leverage.

Semenyo Edges Ahead of Mbeumo in United’s Thinking

While Cunha and Delap are seen as more advanced targets, attention now turns to the third attacking recruit. “Wingers Bryan Mbeumo and Antoine Semenyo are on United’s shortlist. Of the two, it’s relayed Man Utd are favouring a move for Bournemouth’s Semenyo.”

Sky Sports added further clarity: “Man Utd are understood to want the likes of Liam Delap, Matheus Cunha and one of either Antoine Semenyo or Bryan Mbeumo for their forward line, and they will become an increasingly attractive destination if they can offer Champions League football next season.”

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Semenyo’s direct style and physicality could fit Amorim’s vision — and at 25, his best years are still ahead. The Cherries are believed to want £70m, although TeamTalk point out that Rudy Galetti believes a £40m deal is more realistic.

Semenyo’s situation is complicated by rival interest. Liverpool, Newcastle and Tottenham are all reportedly monitoring the Ghanaian, and while United may be frontrunners, competition is fierce. “Semenyo is believed to be ahead of Mbeumo on the list of targets at United.”

Outgoings to Fund the Rebuild

To make room for these arrivals — and to balance the books — United are preparing to part ways with several senior players. Jonny Evans, Victor Lindelöf, and Christian Eriksen are expected to leave on free transfers, trimming the wage bill.

Sales will be even more impactful. Jadon Sancho’s conditional deal with Chelsea could bring in £22-£25m, though there’s a clause allowing Chelsea to pull out, albeit at the cost of a £5m penalty.

Meanwhile, Antony and Marcus Rashford could both secure major moves after loan spells at Real Betis and Aston Villa. Villa are reportedly interested in a permanent Rashford transfer at £40m, though Champions League qualification remains a factor. Barcelona are also keen — a move that would fulfil Rashford’s long-standing dream.

Our View – EPL Index:

There’s real excitement building among the Old Trafford faithful — and rightly so. For too long, Manchester United have lacked clear direction in the transfer market. This summer, there’s finally a coherent plan taking shape: youth, versatility, hunger, and European pedigree. The idea of Matheus Cunha in red is thrilling. He’s skilful, mobile, and crucially, seems desperate to play for United. That kind of desire has been missing in recent years.

Delap, if he joins, adds a raw but fearless edge. And Semenyo? Well, if United land him ahead of Liverpool and Spurs, it sends a statement: this club is back in the mix for top-tier talents.

However, there’s also a note of caution. We’ve been burned by rebuilds before — expensive flops, managerial churn, and over-hyped promises. It’s encouraging to see unwanted players like Sancho and Antony being moved on, but we’ll believe in this new United only when we see results. Beat Spurs in Bilbao, get into the Champions League, and then let’s talk title challenges. Until then, it’s hopeful, but cautious optimism.