Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is reportedly looking to grant Joao Gomes his cherished wish of Champions League football in a bold move to bring the Wolves midfielder to Old Trafford.
United's European Ambition
The Red Devils are currently enjoying their most promising form since Amorim took charge a year ago, having gone five Premier League games unbeaten to climb to seventh position. After just eleven matches, United find themselves within striking distance of a Champions League qualification spot, generating genuine belief at Carrington that a return to Europe's elite competition is achievable next season.
Amorim has been transparent about making Champions League qualification a primary objective for the club. The United hierarchy have demonstrated their commitment to this vision, having already invested over £200 million in strengthening their forward line and acquiring new first-choice goalkeeper Senne Lammens during the summer transfer window.
Midfield Reinforcements Needed
The central midfield area has emerged as the position requiring the most urgent attention, with United being linked with several potential signings. Among the names on their shortlist are Carlos Baleba, Elliott Anderson, and Wolves' 24-year-old Brazilian international Joao Gomes.
According to initial reports from Portugal, Gomes is considered a more financially viable alternative to other targets. His quality has been publicly acknowledged by compatriot and United star Matheus Cunha, who described him as "unbelievable".
United's scouting department has maintained a close watch on Gomes for over eighteen months, and it's believed the midfielder could be available for approximately £44 million. However, any potential deal faces complications as Wolves, currently embroiled in a relegation battle, have reportedly agreed with their new manager not to sell key players during the January transfer window.
Gomes' European Dream
While a January move appears unlikely, delaying until summer could ultimately strengthen United's position. Should Amorim successfully guide United to Champions League qualification, Old Trafford would become a significantly more attractive destination for Gomes.
The player has been vocal about his European ambitions, though his previous comments might discomfort United supporters. Before joining Wolves, Gomes told ESPN Brazil in summer 2022: "Liverpool is a team I would play for. I have the greatest desire to play. Playing in the Champions League is my biggest dream and that of my family, my biggest dream in football."
Despite this historical preference for United's rivals, the rapidly changing landscape of football means a revitalised United offering Champions League football could prove irresistible to Gomes next summer.
Amorim's commitment to achieving this goal was evident when he stated ahead of last season's Europa League final defeat to Tottenham: "Personally for me, Champions League is more important for everything, to prepare the next season, and we are supposed to be in the Champions League."
The immediate challenge for Amorim remains maintaining United's current form throughout the demanding Premier League season, beginning with their upcoming fixtures against Everton and Crystal Palace.
