Full Breakdown
Manchester United and Liverpool Eye Wolves Midfielder João Gomes After Atletico Deal Falls Through
7/12/2026, 12:38:15 PM
Transfer Saga Overview
Wolverhampton Wanderers’ 25-year-old Brazilian midfielder João Gomes has become the focus of two Premier League giants after his planned move to Atlético Madrid collapsed. Both Manchester United and Liverpool have reportedly made contact with Wolves to explore a transfer, reigniting interest in a player who helped Wolves secure the club’s Player-of-the-Season award despite their relegation from the Premier League.
Background & Context
Gomes joined Wolves in January 2024 and quickly established himself as a regular starter. Earlier this summer, a deal with Atlético Madrid appeared imminent, but the transfer fell apart after agent Jorge Mendes altered his plans, prompting Atlético to abandon the signing. At the same time, Manchester United’s €45 million bid for Atalanta midfielder Éderson collapsed, leaving United with a vacant midfield slot and prompting the club’s transfer committee to revisit previously identified targets.
Key Figures
- João Gomes – Brazilian central midfielder, Wolves player of the season, 25.
- Wolverhampton Wanderers – Current club, valuing Gomes at roughly £38 million.
- Manchester United – Premier League club, reportedly contacting Wolves after the Éderson deal fell through.
- Liverpool FC – Premier League club, also in contact with Wolves regarding Gomes.
- Jorge Mendes – Portuguese agent whose change of plans led Atlético Madrid to withdraw.
- Atlético Madrid – Spanish club that initially negotiated with Gomes.
Data & Valuation
- Market value: reported at about £38 million by Wolves.
- Contract status: still under contract with Wolves; no release clause disclosed.
Official Statements & Club Responses
Wolves have confirmed that Gomes is listed at a price of £38 million, describing the figure as “affordable in today’s transfer market.” Manchester United’s transfer committee, led by manager Erik ten Hag and sporting director, has indicated that the club is assessing midfield options after the Éderson collapse, with Gomes highlighted as a viable target. Liverpool’s scouting department has similarly reached out to Wolves, though no formal offer has been announced.
Criticism & Skepticism
Analysts note uncertainty over the depth of United’s interest, observing that “it’s unclear if this is a genuine interest from the Reds or another case of sending out feelers to see their options.” The rapid shift from pursuing Éderson to targeting Gomes has also raised questions about United’s strategic planning, especially given the timing of the World Cup and limited pre-season preparation.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on why the Atlético Madrid deal collapsed. One account attributes the failure to Jorge Mendes changing his plans and securing a deal with Real Madrid, which “angered Atlético’s management” and led to the abandonment of Gomes’ signing. Another narrative suggests the collapse resulted from unresolved contractual terms after an agreement was reached between the parties. No official comment from Atlético Madrid has been provided, leaving the precise cause ambiguous.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Manchester United and Liverpool have made contact over a move for Wolves' Brazil midfielder Joao Gomes, 25, after a switch to Atletico Madrid fell through.” — BBC Sport
- “He’s said to be valued by the club at about £38m.” — Liverpool Offside
These statements capture the key developments and divergent explanations surrounding João Gomes’ transfer situation as the summer window progresses.
