Liverpool have emerged as a serious contender for Wolves midfielder João Gomes, with fresh claims from Brazil now positioning them as the frontrunner in an increasingly crowded race.
The Reds’ midfield has already undergone major change in recent windows. However, there is still a clear push for intensity and ball-winning depth. That is where Gomes fits. His Premier League experience and physical profile make him a natural target.
Recent developments around Napoli and Manchester United had already complicated the picture. Napoli have been working contacts through Jorge Mendes, while United are tracking midfield replacements ahead of a likely reshuffle.
Now, Brazilian press adds a new layer. From Liverpool’s perspective, it may be the most relevant one yet.
Liverpool push as price and context shift
According to RTI Esporte, Wolverhampton Wanderers initially set a £60m (€70m) asking price for Gomes. That figure is not expected to hold.
Wolves sit bottom of the Premier League. Relegation would force a rethink. As a result, the final fee could drop to around £40m-£45m (€47m-€53m).
That potential discount changes everything. It brings Gomes firmly into Liverpool and Manchester United’s range for a starting-level midfielder rather than a long-term project.
Importantly, the same report states Liverpool are leading the race. As the story put it, Liverpool is “a destination that appeals to João Gomes, who has reportedly already expressed interest in playing for the club”.
However, the piece suggests this may not simply be an open auction.
Why Liverpool make sense to him
João Gomes has built a strong reputation since arriving from Flamengo in January 2023. Wolves paid around £15.7m (€18.7m) at the time. His current valuation shows how quickly he has developed.
At 25, he is entering his peak years. He offers intensity, pressing ability and defensive coverage. Those traits are highly valued in Liverpool’s system.
From a tactical perspective, Gomes would add balance. Liverpool’s midfield rebuild has focused on energy and progression. However, there is still room for a more combative presence who can recover possession consistently.
His reported weekly salary of around £60,000 also makes him an attractive option. It sits comfortably within Liverpool’s wage structure for emerging starters.
Premier League priority and race dynamics
João Gomes is believed to favour staying in England. That preference reduces Napoli’s advantage, despite their ongoing efforts and groundwork with intermediaries.
Meanwhile, Manchester United remain a threat. The club are expected to replace Casemiro, who is set to leave at the end of the season. That creates a clear positional need.
Chelsea have also been mentioned in Brazil, linked to uncertainty around Enzo Fernández. Still, their situation appears less advanced.
All of this leaves Liverpool in a strong position. They offer stability, a clear sporting project and, crucially, appear to appeal to the player.
What happens next
João Gomes remains under contract until 2028. That gives Wolves leverage, even in a relegation scenario.
However, a summer exit looks increasingly likely. And if Wolves go down, the price drops as the race accelerates. At that point, Liverpool’s current status as “favourite” could become decisive rather than speculative.
For now, multiple clubs remain involved. Still, Liverpool’s combination of interest, suitability and player preference puts them in a leading position as the window approaches.