Manchester United's plans to run a live audition for a key midfield target have been dealt a significant blow ahead of the January transfer window.
Scouting Opportunity Vanishes for Amorim
Manager Ruben Amorim will now miss the chance to personally assess Wolves' Brazilian midfielder Joao Gomes when the two sides meet at Old Trafford next week. The 24-year-old, valued at around £44 million, will be absent from the Wolves squad after receiving a one-match ban.
This suspension was triggered when Gomes picked up his fifth yellow card of the Premier League season during Wolves' midweek defeat to Nottingham Forest. His absence forces Wolves manager Rob Edwards into a reshuffle, with Marshall Munetsi expected to deputise for the crucial fixture.
Midfield Remains a Priority for United
The central midfield position is understood to be a key area of focus for United's football director Jason Wilcox when the transfer market reopens next month. This comes despite the club investing over £200 million in other areas during the summer window, which saw arrivals including a new goalkeeper, striker, and two forwards.
However, a deal for a central midfielder failed to materialise. A move for Brighton's Carlos Baleba collapsed due to the Seagulls' high valuation. United's shortlist is also reported to include Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton and Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson.
Gomes Emerges as a Leading Contender
Joao Gomes has re-emerged as a serious target for the Reds in recent months. The Brazilian was linked with a move to Old Trafford before United secured the £50 million signing of Manuel Ugarte in 2024.
Wolves' perilous league position adds a layer of complexity to any potential deal. The club sits bottom of the Premier League after 14 games, with just two points and no wins. Speculation over player departures in January is rife. According to The Telegraph, Wolves believe Gomes's value is higher while they remain a Premier League entity, as opposed to being a Championship side should they suffer relegation.
Fellow Wolves midfielder Andre is another player reportedly on United's radar, with Arsenal and Liverpool also credited with interest in the Brazilian.
United's activity in the January window may be influenced by potential outgoings. Reports from ESPN suggest the club could be open to offers for Kobbie Mainoo, Joshua Zirkzee, Manuel Ugarte, and Tyrell Malacia, none of whom have been regular starters this term.
Furthermore, the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations will deprive Amorim of Bryan Mbeumo, Amad, and Noussair Mazraoui, potentially leaving the squad short-handed and increasing the urgency for reinforcements.
While the chance to see Gomes perform under the lights at Old Trafford has passed, his name remains firmly in the frame as Manchester United look to solve their midfield puzzle in the New Year.
