Manchester United target Joao Gomes has had his head turned by interest from Old Trafford despite Wolves' insistence they will not sell him, according to TEAMtalk.
As reported by GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Ben Jacobs, the Red Devils are looking to sign two new players to strengthen their midfield options in 2026, and Gomes is said to be on their shortlist.
United have been linked with a number of elite Premier League midfielders in recent months, including Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, Brighton's Carlos Baleba and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, but Gomes may represent the most cost-effective option.
Indeed, his price has reportedly been set at just €50million (£44m) next year, and Wolves would likely struggle to keep him beyond the end of the season regardless, especially if the top-flight's basement club are relegated.
Man United Want Joao Gomes In January
Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes in action against Crystal Palace
While the likes of Anderson, Baleba and Wharton would be nigh on impossible to prise away from their current teams in January, Manchester United are said to believe they have a realistic shot at signing Gomes during the winter transfer window.
Ruben Amorim will be aware that Wolves don't want to sell the talented 24-year-old, but United set out their stall early in the hope of making Gomes aware of their interest. Now, TEAMtalk claims, the player is waiting to see if a January deal is possible.
The 'phenomenal' Brazil international has played in all 12 of the Midlands outfit's Premier League games this campaign, starting 10 of them.
But with Wolves rooted to the foot of the table and looking set to drop into the Championship, he is reported to be open to a new challenge. A high-profile switch to Old Trafford would certainly tick that box.
Gomes looks to have shot up United's list of priorities, with the club not convinced over Baleba's staggering £100m valuation, especially during a period in which he has struggled for form at Brighton. Anderson and Wharton will also cost significantly more than the Wolves man, making a potential swoop for the duo more likely next summer.
Wolves Don't Want To Sell Joao Gomes
Wolves boss Rob Edwards reacts after his side's defeat against Crystal Palace
For now, Wolves are sticking to their guns and don't want to entertain the prospect of allowing Gomes to leave.
New manager Rob Edwards does not want to lose any of his most crucial players in January as he looks to steer the club out of the drop zone, and according to GIVEMESPORT's Midlands reporter Neil Moxley, he has been assured that will not happen.
Speaking last week, Edwards insisted there had been no official approaches for Gomes, including from United.
"We've spoken about stuff but my focus has been on getting the team organised. 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."
United are back in action against Everton on Monday night, and could move into the Champions League spots with a win.