Manchester United appear poised to lose out on Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Joao Gomes, who has reportedly departed Wolves' training camp to finalise a £35million transfer to Aston Villa. The Brazilian midfielder, initially linked with United in 2024, became a target again after complications arose regarding Ederson's medical. However, Gomes is now set to join Unai Emery's squad, adding to a growing list of midfielders—including Mateus Fernandes, Elliot Anderson, and Sandro Tonali—who were linked with United but chose other clubs.
Gomes' Move to Villa Nears Completion
According to the Birmingham Mail, Gomes is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days before signing his contract with Aston Villa. The 23-year-old joined Wolves from Flamengo in the summer of 2023 on a five-and-a-half-year deal. During his time at Molineux, he made 130 appearances across all competitions, scoring eight goals and providing six assists. Beyond United, Gomes had also been linked with Liverpool and Atletico Madrid, but Villa secured his signature, partly due to their Champions League qualification after winning the Europa League.
Impact on Manchester United's Midfield Plans
Gomes' move is particularly ironic as he is likely to replace Youri Tielemans, who left Villa to join United for the same £35million fee. Tielemans was unveiled as United's second midfield addition of the summer, following the £50million capture of Andrey Santos. Despite these acquisitions, United still aim to add another central midfielder to their ranks. With Casemiro no longer at the club and Manuel Ugarte sidelined for an extended period due to a serious World Cup injury, United's central defensive midfield options now include Kobbie Mainoo and two others.
United's Squad Challenges Under Carrick
Michael Carrick's side finished third in the league, securing Champions League qualification and competing on four fronts next season. Unlike last season, when United were absent from European competition and exited both domestic cups early, Carrick now faces the challenge of managing a squad stretched by multiple competitions. It is understood that Carrick also seeks to bolster his attack with a new left-winger and striker. United's first pre-season clash is scheduled for Saturday against Wrexham in Helsinki, Finland.
Gomes' Career Trajectory
Gomes' rise from Flamengo to the Premier League has been notable. After arriving at Wolves in 2023, he quickly established himself as a key player, contributing eight goals and six assists in 130 matches. His performances attracted interest from top clubs, but Aston Villa's proactive approach and Champions League football proved decisive. Villa's victory in the Europa League last season earned them a spot in Europe's elite competition, a factor that likely influenced Gomes' decision.
