Ruben Amorim accused of 'putting pressure' on Matheus Cunha to join Man Utd after being spotted in conversation with Brazilian star after defeat to Wolves

Amorim, who is still striving to steady the ship at United, was spotted with his arm around Cunha after his team's 1-0 loss to Wolves - a moment that has triggered debate over whether his approach was simply a cordial post-match interaction or something more strategic as the Manchester club prepare for a key summer of squad restructuring.

Pablo Sarabia netted a second-half goal that secured the victory for Wolves and drew them level with the Red Devils on 38 points in the Premier League table. However, what took place in the stadium tunnel afterwards drew almost as much attention as the result.

Cunha has been heavily linked with a summer move away from Wolves after impressing throughout the season. While both Chelsea and Arsenal are reportedly monitoring the situation, a recent report from The Athletic revealed that Cunha has already held favourable discussions with United. Talks have reportedly gone well, with United now believed to be in pole position to land the former Atletico Madrid striker for a fee believed to be around £62.5 million ($84 million).

Former Chelsea and Arsenal star Emmanuel Petit has suggested that Amorim’s actions weren’t coincidental, implying that the manager was making his pitch in real-time for the Brazilian’s services.

In an interview with Sambaslots, he said: "Amorim was speaking to Matheus Cunha and putting some pressure on him. I think we all understand what he was doing because Amorim is looking for players with character. Cunha has shown he has that with Wolves, he has been their best player and probably saved them from relegation, he would be a great addition for Manchester United and looks to already have that link to Amorim."

If Cunha does make the move to Old Trafford, it could signal a reshuffle in Manchester United’s attacking setup. Petit suggested the Brazilian could even slot into a role ahead of Bruno Fernandes, offering fresh energy and a different dynamic in the final third.

"He would play ahead of Bruno Fernandes and form a connection," the former Arsenal man said. "In the meantime, United need to work hard to end the season strong and maybe try to sell some players as well as bringing some in."

With performances on the pitch still falling short of expectations, United are expected to be active in the summer transfer window. There is also talk of an impending squad overhaul, with the club potentially offloading several players to create room for fresh arrivals. And if recent reports are taken into consideration, Cunha looks ready to make the switch to Old Trafford.