Manchester United swiftly signed Brazil international Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers early this summer.
United activated Cunha’s £62.5 million release clause to secure his signature, making him the club’s eighth-most expensive signing ever.
There had been speculation about the jersey number the Brazilian would wear, but that has now been put to bed as United have decided on it.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils have confirmed that the 26-year-old will wear the number 10 jersey, having informed Marcus Rashford, its previous occupier, of the club’s decision.
Rashford has already told United that he wants to leave, joining Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Tyrell Malacia, and Jadon Sancho in doing so.
The number 10 shirt is among the most prestigious in United’s history. Legends Sir Bobby Charlton, Teddy Sheringham, Mark Hughes, Ruud van Nistelrooy, and Wayne Rooney also donned it.
Cunha is highly rated by the club’s senior figures. Chief Executive Officer Omar Berrada believes he can have an ‘(Eric) Cantona-esque’ impact at Old Trafford.
The versatile forward is expected to report for pre-season training with his new team-mates on Monday.
He is also set to meet Manager Ruben Amorim, who has already returned to Carrington before the official resumption date.
Cunha is anticipated to play a key role under Amorim next season, playing as one of the two number 10s in the Portuguese’s favoured 3-4-2-1 formation.
He could feature when the Manchester outfit face newly promoted Leeds United in a friendly at Strawberry Arena, Sweden, on July 19.
United want Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo to follow the Brazil forward’s signing. They hope the Cameroonian can join the squad in time for pre-season.
However, they have yet to agree with Brentford for the Cameroonian. Their latest £62.5 million bid was rejected, but a new offer is expected soon.
