Joao Gomes: Where Manchester United stand in the race for tenacious Premier League star | OneFootball

Manchester United have now emerged as one of the favourites for Joao Gomes.

Midfield chase

It is the worst‑kept secret that United are preparing for a major midfield overhaul this summer.

Having signed only two central midfielders, Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte, in the past seven years, it is little wonder why the Red Devils must spend heavily to reinforce the centre of the park, a need made all the more urgent by Casemiro’s confirmed summer exit.

With that in mind, several top midfielders have already been linked with a move to Old Trafford.

One of them is Wolves’ Gomes. The Wanderers’ all‑action midfielder has earned plaudits for his tenacity, elite ball‑winning, relentless pressing and reliable ball‑carrying, qualities that make him one of the finest central midfielders currently in the Premier League.

Yet despite his brilliance, Gomes may not be able to save Wolves from relegation. It would take something extraordinary for the West Midlands side to avoid the drop. Should they go down, Gomes is not expected to go down with them; a move elsewhere looks inevitable.

And if he does leave, reports now suggest his next destination could be either United or Napoli, but not Flamengo.

Gomes’ thoughts on a potential return to Brazil

Recently, the Brazilian has been linked with a return home to Flamengo. However, those rumours have now been dismissed by South American transfer expert Julio Miguel Neto, who stated:

“Joao Gomes’ representatives have no intention of negotiating a return for the midfielder to Brazilian football.

“His most likely destination is Napoli in Italy, with Manchester United also having made enquiries.

“The club itself has not made any moves for the midfielder.

“Speaking after the victory against Vitoria, Filipe Luis (Flamengo coach) stressed that the squad is already well covered in that position.”

Napoli versus United for Gomes

Ultimately, the battle may come down to which of the two European heavyweights wants Wolves’ “pitbull” more.

United fans will hope it is their club that wins the race. The chance to remain in the Premier League could also persuade Gomes to snub Napoli.

A proven Premier League talent, the Wolves number eight has everything required to become a long‑term, cost‑effective and dynamic replacement for Casemiro at Old Trafford.

Featured image Naomi Baker via Getty Images

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