Man United ‘monitoring’ Wolves star amid transfer ‘battle’ with Premier League rivals
Man United are preparing to move in the January transfer window as they look to beat the inflated prices that may occur from next summer’s World Cup.
Ruben Amorim’s strengthening of the Man United squad in the summer is currently paying dividends with the Red Devils sitting a point off the Champions League places.
Man United rescued a 2-2 draw at Tottenham to stretch their unbeaten run to five matches in the Premier League.
Amorim believes Man United still have problem to solve though with the former Sporting manager looking to do business in the January window.
Joao Gomes a Man United target
Amorim wants to strengthen his midfield, with Casemiro’s future at Man United uncertain with the club wanting the Brazilian to take a pay cut.
Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba are two targets for Man United, but the Daily Mail [11 November] report that the club prefer not to compete with Premier League rivals next summer, and could move in January, with Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes a possibility.
“Manchester United are facing a battle with Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City to sign a world-class midfielder next summer,” the Daily Mail reported.
“United have prioritised buying a new No 6, but all three of their Premier League rivals will be shopping in the same marketplace with more money to spend.“
The report added: “Confidential understands United are also monitoring Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes.
“United are trying to drive down their wage bill – one reason the club are reluctant to extend Casemiro’s contract on £375,000-a-week – and that may put them at a disadvantage compared to City, Liverpool and Chelsea who are also likely to be able to gazump them on transfer fees.
“United would prefer to sign a new midfielder before the World Cup to avoid prices for individual targets soaring if they do well at the tournament, and may have to consider cheaper, emerging targets.“
Wolves position could strengthen Man United hand
Gomes has started nine of Wolves’ 11 Premier League games this season, and is a constant presence in their midfield.
| Minutes Played | 836 |
| Duels Won % | 47.7% |
| Aerial Duels Won % | 62.5% |
| Recoveries | 50 |
The next Wolves manager will not want to lose the 24-year-old if the club have serious ambitions about remaining in the top flight.
However, such a position at the bottom of the league table could make Wolves sell before there expected return to the Championship.