- Manchester United learn Joao Gomes preference
- Chelsea and Liverpool also in race for Brazilian
- Wolves midfielder expected to be on the move
Manchester United have been linked with Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Joao Gomes for some time. The Brazilian has made 30 Premier League appearances this season, starting 27 of them. The midfielder has been a massive presence despite Wolves’ relegation-bound season.
Both Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte are expected to depart, making a midfield signing a priority. Manchester United have been linked with various names, including Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson, Amadou Onana and Joao Gomes.
However, recent reports suggest that United should rule out Gomes and look elsewhere. Not because of a lack of quality, but because the player’s heart seems set on a different destination.
Manchester United Not Gomes Preference
According to RTI Sport, Liverpool lead the race to sign the 25‑year‑old. The outlet claims that the Merseysiders is “a destination that pleases Joao Gomes, who has already shown interest in wearing the club’s shirt.”
That should be enough for United to walk away. Chasing a player who openly favours a rival is rarely a winning strategy, especially when other high‑quality targets are available.
Gomes might be impressive at Molineux, but he isn’t exactly a must-have. He’s made 36 appearances across competitions this season, posting one goal and three assists.
United Shouldn’t Waste Time on Gomes
Wolves are facing imminent relegation to the Championship, which could force them to sell Gomes for a reduced fee. Their current asking price is £60 million, though that figure is likely to fall to somewhere between £40 and £45 million if they go down. On paper, that represents decent value for a proven Premier League midfielder. But value means little if the player does not genuinely want to join.
The report from RTI Sport states, “With relegation likely, the situation favours a possible transfer. Clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, and Liverpool are leading the race to sign Joao Gomes. Liverpool has emerged as a destination that appeals to Joao Gomes, who has reportedly already expressed interest in playing for the club.”
Better Alternatives to Pursue
Manchester United are set to lose two defensive midfielders this summer, with Casemiro and Ugarte needing quality replacements. Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest, Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali and Baleba of Brighton are among the club’s top targets. Each of those players would arrive with fewer question marks over their commitment.
Gomes has played 111 times for Wolves since joining in 2023 and has shown flashes of brilliance. But United cannot afford to invest £40‑45 million in a player who would rather be at Liverpool.
The message from the Brazilian’s camp is clear. Manchester United should take note and focus on midfielders who actually want to wear the red shirt. Ruling out Gomes now would save time, money, and a lot of unnecessary drama.
