Topics: Manchester United, Transfer News, Football, Premier League, Man Utd
Joao Gomes has made it clear what Manchester United must achieve if he is to consider a move to Old Trafford.
The Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder, who joined from Flamengo in 2023, has emerged as a potential transfer target for Ruben Amorim's side.
Central midfield is expected to be the priority position for Manchester United next summer, with a number of targets already being identified.
According to the Daily Mail, Gomes has joined a shortlist that also includes Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton.
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Next summer looks set to bring significant change in United's midfield, with Casemiro's contract due to expire and Bruno Fernandes' future uncertain beyond the World Cup.
With Kobbie Mainoo wanting to leave on loan and Manuel Ugarte struggling for form, United are expected to be active in the market.
Given the influence of PSR on next summer's transfer business, a move for Gomes could appeal.
Wolves are currently winless in the Premier League with just two points from the first 11 games - a position no club has ever not been relegated from.
If Wolves are relegated to the Championship, they may be forced into sales.
But United are expected to face competition in their pursuit of a midfielder, with both Liverpool and Manchester City likely to strengthen in the same position.
Back in 2022, Liverpool were linked with Gomes while he was still playing in Brazil.
When asked about the speculation at the time, he replied: “Liverpool are a team I’d play for. I have the greatest desire to play.
“Playing in the Champions League is my biggest dream in football."
Given Gomes' long-term ambition to play in Europe's elite competition, it adds another motivation for United to secure a top-four finish.
After finishing 15th in the Premier League and losing in the Europa League final, United are without any European football for the first time since the 2014-15 season.
Amorim has suggested that no midweek football could be beneficial, giving him more time to work with the players on the training ground.
However, it has also limited opportunities for squad players, with Mainoo having asked to leave on loan in August.
Given he is still yet to start a league game this season, the midfielder is again expected to push for a loan in January, with Napoli interested.
The Daily Mail also reported that United intend to sign a midfielder before the start of the World Cup in June 2026, to avoid inflated prices following the tournament.
A January arrival has not been ruled out either, with Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher a name that has been mentioned.
