Report: Liverpool in pole position to land £45m midfielder this summer | OneFootball

Liverpool Eyeing Move to Sign Premier League Midfielder

Liverpool are preparing for a pivotal summer window, with midfield reinforcements high on the agenda as pressure continues to build on Arne Slot. After a disastrous title defence, there is a growing acceptance internally that evolution is required, particularly in the centre of the pitch where performances have dipped.

Midfield Concerns at Anfield

There has been a noticeable drop in output from key figures. Alexis Mac Allister has struggled to replicate the levels that underpinned Liverpool’s recent success, while Ryan Gravenberch has yet to justify his significant wage bracket with consistent displays. Add to that the uncertain contract situation surrounding Curtis Jones, and it becomes clear why Liverpool are assessing their options carefully.

Recruitment staff, led by Richard Hughes, are understood to be targeting players capable of injecting energy, reliability and tactical balance into Slot’s system. That search has led them back to a long standing target.

Joao Gomes Emerges as Priority Target

Joao Gomes has reappeared prominently on Liverpool’s radar, with strong indications that the midfielder would favour a move to Anfield, according to Brazilian outlet RTI Esporte.  The Liverpool hierarchy have tracked him since his Flamengo days, where he impressed during their Copa Libertadores triumph in 2022.

Now at Wolves, the 25-year-old has developed into one of the Premier League’s most industrious midfielders. However, the club’s precarious league position has introduced uncertainty, potentially opening the door for a summer transfer.

Photo: IMAGO

According to the report, Wolves initially valued Gomes at £60 million, though there is an expectation that negotiations could bring that figure down.

“The English club initially set a price of £60 million to release the player, but the trend is towards a more flexible approach to the transaction,” said the report.

“With the potential drop in transfer fees, this value could fall to somewhere between £40 and £45 million.”

Competition Builds Across Europe

Liverpool are not alone in their pursuit. Interest from domestic rivals and European sides is intensifying, yet there is a belief that the player’s preference could prove decisive.

“Clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, and Liverpool are leading the race to sign the midfielder,” the report claims.

“Liverpool has emerged as a destination that appeals to João Gomes, who has reportedly already expressed interest in playing for the club.

“Despite also attracting interest from clubs like Napoli and Atlético de Madrid, João Gomes’ priority is to remain in English football.”

Such positioning places Liverpool in a strong negotiating stance, particularly if Wolves’ situation forces a reassessment of their financial expectations.

Profile Fits Slot’s Tactical Demands

Gomes is widely regarded as a high intensity, ball winning midfielder, known for his relentless pressing and ability to disrupt opposition play. His style has earned him comparisons to a “pitbull”, reflecting his tenacity in duels and defensive transitions.

While not a traditional playmaker, his strengths lie in regaining possession, covering ground and maintaining simple distribution. These attributes align closely with Slot’s preference for structured pressing and quick transitions, suggesting a natural fit within Liverpool’s evolving system.

With Wolves potentially bracing for a difficult summer, Liverpool’s interest in Joao Gomes appears both strategic and timely. The coming weeks are expected to bring further clarity as discussions develop.