Manchester United are scrambling for solutions to finally fix their increasingly fragile midfield.
Elliott Anderson, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton are all high on the club’s wishlist, but prising any of them away mid-season is close to impossible.
Wolverhampton Wanderers star Joao Gomes has now entered the rumour mill, with fresh links emerging ahead of the January window.
According to Record Portugal, Gomes is open to joining Man United in early 2026 but the club must pay a premium fee of £44 million.
Gomes arrived at Molineux from Flamengo in January 2023 and quickly became a fan favourite.
He has considerable experience of English football, having played 103 times for the Premier League outfit.
The 24-year-old has struggled to deliver consistent performances this season, a dip mirrored by Wolves’ miserable return of just two points from 11 league matches.
With relegation fears growing, Wolves are highly unlikely to sanction the departure of one of their few difference-makers.
Gomes’ current deal keeps him at the club until 2030.
Anderson or Baleba has more potential than the Brazil international and offer more value for money, even at a higher transfer fee.
Gomes could develop into a useful squad option, but splashing close to £50 million on him would be a questionable move.
He is an energetic midfielder but United should attempt to make a move next summer if Wolves are relegated.
The Red Devils must act wisely in midfield recruitment, avoiding expensive short-term fixes.
INEOS made smart signings in the summer and must stick to the right path.
Stats from Fotmob.com
