As the January transfer window quickly approaches, both Manchester United and João Gomes are very close to agreeing on a January move, with both parties stepping up their interest in a potential move.
After securing a new forward line and goalkeeper, Manchester United are expected to shift their attention to signing at least one midfielder next summer, as Rúben Amorim continues to shape his squad.
United’s midfield has been a major talking point this season. Many believe Bruno Fernandes’ influence has diminished in the deeper midfield pivot compared to his previous role as a central attacking midfielder.
Manuel Ugarte has also struggled to reproduce the form he showed under Amorim at Sporting, leaving his long-term future at Old Trafford uncertain.
Meanwhile, Casemiro has enjoyed something of a resurgence, playing a key part in United’s strong campaign and starting all but two matches. With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, it remains unclear whether the club will choose to extend the Brazilian’s deal.
Negotiations for Gomes ‘advanced’
Over the summer, Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba was seemingly the main target, but after being priced out of a potential move, United were made to wait to reinforce a position that has been crying out for depth.
While it was thought that any potential midfield signing would only happen next summer, perhaps the club’s real chance of securing Champions League football next season has led to this deal being moved forward to January.
According to a report from Trivela, the Wolves midfielder is expected to swap Wolves for Man Utd, with negotiations reportedly at an advanced stage.
United are seemingly fully intent on sticking with their new transfer philosophy of signing Premier League-proven players, and are also linked with the likes of Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, while they are also expected to go back in for Baleba.
Gomes “says yes” to Man Utd move
According to TEAMtalk, the 24-year-old has had his head turned by the interest that United have shown towards the signing.
United, however, know that Wolves don’t want to sell one of their star players as they look to avoid relegation after bringing in new manager Rob Edwards.
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The report states that United are aware that Wolves are focused on not letting Gomes go in January, but have begun to make inroads with the possibility of a transfer, and are taking a similar approach as they did with Baleba.
A potential deal in January would reportedly cost between £40-50 million. Despite Wolves’ firm stance that the player is not for sale, they may have to reluctantly let their star player go, as his price will drastically decrease should they get relegated, and they could use the funds received in January to rebuild for next season.
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