While Manchester United’s attention is firmly on navigating their Europa League campaign against Athletic Bilbao, thoughts behind the scenes have already shifted towards the summer rebuild. With Ruben Amorim preparing to stamp his authority on a fractured and underperforming United squad, significant moves are expected at Old Trafford.
We caught up with former United defender Paul Parker to get his take on some of the names being linked with the club – and why he thinks change is not just necessary, but urgent.
In this article:
- Why Parker backs Cunha as an immediate upgrade
- Concerns over United’s ability to land Osimhen
- Why Cherki and Delap could be the smarter moves
- Diogo Costa eyed as the next man between the sticks
Cunha Move Raises Eyebrows – But He’s Still a Step Up
Wolves forward Matheus Cunha, who has had a mixed campaign at Molineux, is reportedly close to joining United as Amorim looks to strengthen the No.10 role. Having lost Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford and Antony to loan spells, United’s attacking options are painfully thin.
Despite Cunha penning a new deal with Wolves not long ago, Parker believes the Brazilian would still represent a clear improvement on United’s current crop.
“I don’t get the Cunha situation,” Parker said. “Why sign a new deal if you’re planning to leave? Maybe it’s just to protect Wolves’ value, but it’s odd.
“That said, he’d definitely be an upgrade – 100 percent better than what United have now. He might not be the perfect solution, but he’d raise the level.”
Cunha has impressed with 17 goals and six assists across all competitions but has also endured suspensions and spats with Wolves supporters – fuelling speculation his time in the Midlands is up.
“He’s not a traditional centre-forward,” Parker continued. “He’s athletic, he runs hard, and he clearly hates losing. That sort of mentality would lift United’s forward line.”
Cherki: Classy Talent, But Is United Just Being Used?
Another name in the frame is Lyon’s Rayan Cherki, who showed flashes of brilliance against United in their recent Europa League tie. The Frenchman’s eye-catching dribbling and creativity caught Parker’s eye.
“Whenever Cherki got on the ball, United were rattled,” Parker said. “Lyon lost their spark when they took him off – a massive mistake.”
Still, Parker questions whether United are seriously in the mix or simply being used to drive up Cherki’s price.
“He’s good enough for PSG, to be honest. Whenever an exciting young player comes up, someone sticks United’s name on the story to get attention.”
Osimhen to United?
Reports suggest there’s already an agreement in place for Victor Osimhen to join United this summer, but Parker isn’t convinced the deal is realistic – or affordable.
“Osimhen would be an upgrade, sure. But he’s going to cost a fortune,” he warned. “United need to sell first, and losing players like Lindelof and Evans might not free up much.
“Jonathan David’s another name being mentioned – and he could be picked up for free. He’s statistically better than Osimhen in some areas, but it’s not just about numbers.”
Is Liam Delap The Kind Of Player United Need?
United are also keeping tabs on Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, who has a £30m relegation release clause. Parker sees real merit in turning to youth rather than splashing the cash on high-profile stars.
“Delap’s the kind of player United need. Athletic, hungry, and fearless,” Parker said. “I’d rather take a punt on him than spend silly money on Osimhen. Let’s see if Delap’s brave enough to turn United down if they come knocking.”
Does Diogo Costa Tick the Boxes?
After a difficult spell for Andre Onana, United are said to be looking at Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa as a potential replacement – and Parker is all for it.
“Costa should’ve been snapped up years ago,” Parker said. “He’s quality, one of Portugal’s best.”
But once again, Parker warns United must be clever with their finances.
“Selling Onana won’t be easy. Realistically, you’re only getting money from Saudi clubs. No one in Europe is paying top dollar for a keeper who’s struggled at Old Trafford.”
