Manchester United have quickly turned to Wolves midfielder João Gomes after abandoning their move for Atalanta’s Éderson. Meanwhile, Liverpool have also made contact for the Brazilian.
The Red Devils had been expected to complete Éderson’s signing. However, the transfer collapsed, with different reasons being given from different sources.
That has forced Manchester United back into the market. Subsequently, Globo Esporte reports João Gomes is now back on their radar.
Liverpool have also approached Wolves to ask about the 25-year-old. Both Premier League clubs are seeking information on a potential deal.
Atlético Madrid collapse opens door
João Gomes had looked destined to leave Molineux this summer after Atlético Madrid reached an agreement worth €45m (£39m) to sign him.
However, as we covered earlier, the move unravelled because of events involving super-agent Jorge Mendes.
According to Brazilian reports, Mendes had negotiated João Gomes’ move to Atlético before becoming involved in Bernardo Silva’s future.
After helping to advance Bernardo Silva’s switch, the Portuguese agent ultimately took the Manchester City player to Real Madrid instead.
That reportedly angered Atlético Madrid’s hierarchy. As a result, they reacted by abandoning their agreement for João Gomes. This happened despite terms already being settled.
The collapse has immediately reopened the market for the former Flamengo midfielder.
Manchester United return as Liverpool enquire
Globo Esporte adds Manchester United’s interest is not new. The club had already identified João Gomes in January, although Ruben Amorim’s departure ended any realistic chance of a winter move.
We also covered claims from Brazil that Liverpool were interested at some point of the campaign. However, that trail went cold.
United revived contacts towards the end of last season. But by then João Gomes appeared set for Atlético Madrid.
With Éderson’s transfer now off, United have moved again, while Liverpool have also contacted Wolves to understand the asking price and structure of a possible deal.
Despite Wolves’ relegation from the Premier League, João Gomes enjoyed an outstanding individual campaign. He was voted the club’s Player of the Season by both supporters and teammates after featuring in 41 of the club’s 44 league matches, contributing one goal and three assists.
The Brazilian has now made 130 appearances for Wolves since arriving from Flamengo in January 2023, scoring eight goals and providing six assists.
With Atlético Madrid out of the picture, the race for his signature has suddenly reopened, and two of the Premier League’s biggest clubs are now positioned to take advantage.
Current MUFC midfielder situation
Casemiro left after his contract expiry
Manuel Ugarte picked up a long term injury at the World Cup
Andrey Santos is expected to arrive from Chelsea
At the very least, Manchester United need a further addition
Manu Kone is one of the others being linked
🇮🇹 Manu Kone: Manchester United transfer timeline started in December
▪️December: Confident #MUFC claims in Italy
▪️June: €40m bargain chance due to Roma pressures
▪️July: Impressive World Cup pushes price to €50m+https://t.co/KZxYkRHi01
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) July 10, 2026