Arsenal have entered the increasingly crowded race for Porto winger William Gomes. Fresh reports indicate the Gunners have already taken steps to gather information on the Brazilian’s situation ahead of the summer window.
The 20-year-old has become one of the most sought-after young attackers in Portugal after a breakthrough season at Porto. That rise has already attracted attention from across Europe, but Premier League interest appears to be growing particularly quickly.
Manchester United have been repeatedly linked with William Gomes in recent weeks. Newcastle and Chelsea have also featured prominently in reports surrounding the winger’s future. And Arsenal are now part of that picture as well.
Arsenal make contact
According to reports from Globo Esporte in Brazil, Arsenal have contacted representatives of William Gomes. They want to better understand the conditions of a potential deal.
Manchester United are said to have made similar enquiries, while Atlético Madrid remain heavily involved after being linked with the player since May.
The Spanish side are described as the club furthest along in their interest. However, the overall situation remains at an early stage. No agreement is close and several clubs are still assessing their next move.
Premier League interest keeps growing
William Gomes finished the season with 13 goals and two assists in 40 appearances for Porto.
Those performances helped him become one of the club’s most valuable assets. In addition, they have also fuelled a transfer battle that now stretches across England and Spain.
Newcastle have arguably gone furthest among the Premier League clubs. Reports in both Spain and Brazil have claimed the Magpies have intensified their pursuit. One report even suggests an offer has already been submitted.
Chelsea have also been credited with strong interest and were among the clubs who watched Porto’s recent match against Nottingham Forest in person.
Meanwhile, Manchester United continue to be mentioned regularly by Portuguese media as admirers of the winger.
Porto hold the cards
Any interested club knows the biggest obstacle is likely to be Porto’s valuation.
Recent reports in Portugal have claimed the club would only consider offers in the region of €60m (£51.6m). This is despite William Gomes having a release clause worth €80m (£68.8m).
Porto are also under no pressure to sell. Club officials reportedly believe another season, particularly with Champions League football, could increase the winger’s value even further.
For Arsenal, the first contact has now been made. Whether it develops into something more substantial may depend on how aggressively they are prepared to compete against Manchester United, Newcastle, Chelsea and Atlético Madrid in the months ahead.