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Talks opened on Friday: CL semi-finalists now in direct pursuit of concrete Man Utd target, INEOS need to act fast
Apr 25 2026 09:13 · By onefootball.com · 30 Reads
Atletico Madrid have launched a shock pursuit of Wolverhampton Wanderers’ midfield talisman Joao Gomes, who is also said to be on Manchester United’s shortlist.
According to Ben Jacobs, the Champions League semi-finalists ‘opened talks’ with the Molineux star on Friday after originally registering their interest in January.
– Friday, 24 April 2026
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It could now prompt INEOS to bring forward their potential move for Gomes in hopes that he chooses a switch to Old Trafford over the Metropolitano.
– Wednesday, 31 December 2025
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Atleti have turned to the Brazilian after reaching something of a stalemate in their attempts to sign Ederson; they achieved an agreement on personal terms with the player, but are yet to finalise a deal with Atalanta.
As a result, they’re looking to swiftly move on and ensure they have alternative options lined up, with Gomes being their first choice.
The 25-year-old is now almost nailed-on to leave Wolves this summer following confirmation they would be playing in the Championship next season.
Wolves still want to get their money’s worth, though, and are expected to demand as much as £40 million to facilitate Gomes’ exit – three-and-a-half years after they paid just £15m to sign him from Flamengo.
He has since racked up 112 Premier League appearances, making it no surprise that he’s caught the attention of United chiefs amid their ongoing search for a suitable Casemiro successor.
– Thursday, 12 March 2026
Gomes doesn’t rank as high as the likes of Elliot Anderson or Carlos Baleba in INEOS’ estimations, though he is a considerably more cost-effective option with relatively equal top-flight experience.
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