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Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Joao Gomes is expected to leave this summer, with several clubs exploring a move.
The Brazilian has been linked with Liverpool in recent years and is said to favour a switch to Anfield. However, Atletico Madrid have opened talks with Wolves over a potential deal, according to talkSPORT.
Following Wolves’ relegation from the Premier League, Gomes is likely to depart, with the club valuing him at around £40m. The 25-year-old joined from Flamengo in 2023 for just over £15m and has since made more than 120 appearances.
He has featured 31 times in the league this season, scoring in a 2-0 win over Aston Villa at Molineux. With a World Cup approaching, he is unlikely to remain in the Championship.
Atlético, managed by Diego Simeone, are looking to strengthen their midfield after selling Conor Gallagher to Tottenham Hotspur. They have also agreed personal terms with Ederson of Atalanta, though a fee is yet to be finalised.
Atletico Madrid are set for a summer of transition, with long-serving forward Antoine Griezmann joining Orlando City SC.
The Spanish side had already explored the midfield market earlier this year, signing promising 20-year-old Obed Vargas from Seattle Sounders FC in January, although he has been used sparingly.
Despite Wolves’ difficult season, Gomes has stood out with his defensive work, ranking highly for duels won and tackles, with an impressive success rate that suits Simeone’s style.
Wolves head coach Rob Edwards earlier played down suggestions that Gomes could leave the club this summer. He said: “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.”
Joao Gomes has earned 10 caps for Brazil national football team since his senior debut in 2024, but was not included in Carlo Ancelotti’s March squad.
Atlético Madrid are currently third in La Liga and face Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals next Wednesday.