Arsenal ‘to meet top Man Utd target’ as Andrea Berta launches 11th-hour transfer hijack…

Arsenal is reportedly set to challenge Manchester United for a key summer transfer target as Andrea Berta initiates a last-minute attempt to secure a deal.

Reports indicate that Arsenal has arranged a new meeting with the representatives of Wolves forward Matheus Cunha, contemplating a dramatic takeover.

Manchester United is believed to be in advanced negotiations to acquire the Brazilian forward this summer and is prepared to activate his £63 million release clause.

The Athletic suggests that United has presented an offer regarding personal terms, but further discussions are necessary before Cunha commits to the proposal.

Although European football is not guaranteed at Old Trafford next season, rival clubs are reportedly interested and could provide that incentive. GIVEMESPORT notes that Newcastle United is also in the running to sign Cunha, but Arsenal is a significant contender.

The Gunners are said to have engaged in new talks among club executives about making a definitive move for Cunha.

Furthermore, it is reported that sporting director Andrea Berta has arranged a new meeting with the 25-year-old’s representatives to potentially secure him from United. However, the report indicates that United remains the frontrunner for Cunha’s signature, with contract discussions expected to progress in the coming days.

The Wolves star is reportedly eager to finalize his next club before the season concludes and has already shown interest in the project led by Ruben Amorim and INEOS.

While United’s European participation next season is not anticipated to influence the situation, the club will likely seek clarity on their summer budget before finalizing any agreements.

Nonetheless, Cunha has emerged as the primary target for the Red Devils, and Amorim may exhaust most of his budget before player sales to enhance his attacking options.

The Portuguese manager is also reportedly keen on adding a new striker, with Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap being his preferred choice.

Delap is on the market for £30 million following the Tractor Boys’ drop from the Premier League, attracting significant interest.

United aims to strengthen their squad but may need to sell several players to support Amorim, particularly if they fail to secure Champions League qualification.

The M16 club can only enter Europe’s top competition by winning the Europa League final on May 21, which could yield at least £60 million.

High-earning players like Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Antony are anticipated to leave the club permanently this summer.

Additionally, United is reportedly open to offers for most senior players, including Casemiro, Alejandro Garnacho, and Rasmus Hojlund.