Manchester United back in for João Gomes

Manchester United have returned to a former target as part of their plans to overhaul their midfield this summer transfer window. According to TeamTalk, the Old Trafford club have made fresh contact with the representatives of Wolverhampton Wanderers' Brazilian midfielder João Gomes. The player, long admired by the Red Devils and previously high on their shortlist, is firmly back on the agenda.

Two developments lie behind this renewed contact. The first is the collapse, at the final stage, of Gomes' move to Atletico Madrid, which he had been very close to this summer. In a process handled by agent Jorge Mendes, Bernardo Silva's unexpected decision to choose Real Madrid angered the Spanish club and led to the Gomes deal being called off. The second is the uncertainty United face over the Ederson transfer from Atalanta, with a long-term knee issue identified during the medical now jeopardising that move.

This picture has prompted United to activate their alternative plans. While the club insist the Ederson deal is officially still on the table, they want to be prepared should it fall through. In that context, talks are said to have reopened with Roma's Manu Koné as well. United are reported to be looking to sign three central midfielders this summer.

Emerging as one of the Premier League's most reliable defensive midfielders last season despite Wolves' relegation, Gomes earned the nickname "Pitbull" in Brazil for his ability to win the ball aggressively. The former Flamengo star is said to blend intensity and control in possession to great effect. Liverpool are also said to be tracking the player, and with Gomes under contract at Wolves until 2030, his future looks set to occupy the agenda throughout the summer.

Source: TeamTalk

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