Wolverhampton Wanderers have moved to address mounting speculation surrounding Brazilian midfielder Joao Gomes, with manager Rob Edwards confirming Manchester United have not made any official approach for the highly-rated star.
Wolves Boss Sets Record Straight
Speaking ahead of his side's recent 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, Edwards sought to clarify the situation regarding Gomes' future at Molineux. "We've spoken about stuff but my focus has been on getting the team organised," the Wolves manager stated. "We have got some good players and there will always be interest, but I'm not aware of anything. Joao has been excellent this week."
The 24-year-old Brazilian international finds himself on a shortlist of midfield targets identified by Manchester United as they prepare to overhaul their engine room under incoming manager Ruben Amorim. Gomes joins Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, Brighton's Carlos Baleba and Atletico Madrid's Conor Gallagher as primary options for the Red Devils.
United's Midfield Revolution Plans
With the January transfer window opening in just over a month, Manchester United are expected to intensify their efforts to secure a new midfield presence. The club's interest in Gomes has been longstanding, though Edwards' comments confirm that no formal contact has been established between the two clubs at this stage.
Gomes, who joined Wolves from Brazilian giants Flamengo in 2023, has developed into a crucial component of the Midlands side. His impressive performances have earned him 104 appearances and seven goals for Wolves, alongside recent recognition with the Brazilian national team.
Despite signing a new contract extension earlier this year that ties him to Wolves until 2030, speculation persists that an offer in the region of £44 million could tempt Wolves into negotiations for his services.
Former Teammate's Glowing Endorsement
Adding fuel to the transfer rumours, Gomes' former Wolves teammate Matheus Cunha has publicly endorsed the midfielder's potential move to Old Trafford. The forward drew favourable comparisons between Gomes and current United star Casemiro during recent comments.
"He is a bit older now but I put Casemiro's name there only to show where Joao Gomes could arrive," Cunha stated. "I think Joao has the possibility to arrive. He is very humble, and he works a lot. The good teams come like a gift when you do that."
Cunha added: "He is unbelievable on the pitch. I feel very secure. I feel like I can lose the ball when I have my midfielders behind me. He played very well for the national team, too."
Alternative Options Under Consideration
While Gomes remains a prominent figure in United's transfer thinking, he represents just one of several options being explored. Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson is understood to be another priority target, though his reported £100 million price tag presents significant financial challenges for the Manchester club.
Forest manager Sean Dyche addressed the speculation surrounding his own midfielder, noting: "It is nothing to do with me, it is the powers that be. They run the club and the financial side. I'm sure they will ask my opinion about the situation, if it is needed - not just about him but about all the players here."
As the January window approaches, all indications suggest Manchester United will accelerate their pursuit of midfield reinforcements, with Gomes positioned as a leading candidate should formal negotiations commence between the clubs.
