Napoli are on the verge of securing a major transfer coup, reportedly beating Manchester United to the signing of Wolverhampton’s midfield engine, João Gomes.
The 24-year-old Brazilian international has been one of the few bright spots in a dismal season for Wolves. With the Molineux club currently embroiled in a fierce relegation battle, expectations of Gomes’ departure have reached a boiling point. While Manchester United under the new leadership of Michael Carrick had identified him as a January priority (per ESPN), it is Napoli who have surged into the lead.
The “Di Marzio” Confirmation: Terms Agreed
According to Italian transfer specialist Gianluca Di Marzio, João Gomes has already reached a total agreement on personal terms with the Neapolitan giants. The midfielder is said to be “enthusiastic” about the prospect of playing in Italy, drawn by the ambition of the Napoli project and the chance to work under a world-class tactician.
Negotiations between the clubs are now at an advanced stage. While Wolves are desperate to retain their key assets, their precarious position in the Premier League standings may force them to facilitate a sale to balance the books and reinvest in their squad.
January or June?
The initial framework of the deal was aimed at a summer transfer (June 2026). However, sources in Italy suggest that Napoli is pushing to bring the Brazilian to the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona this January.
The Logic: Napoli wants to solidify their midfield dominance for the second half of the season as they push for the Scudetto.
The Player: Known for his relentless pressing and ball-winning capabilities—earning him the nickname “The Pitbull”—Gomes is seen as the perfect tactical fit for a high-intensity system.
A Blow for Manchester United
For Manchester United, losing out on João Gomes is a significant setback. The club had viewed the former Flamengo star as the ideal long-term successor to Casemiro. Now, with Napoli closing in, United must look elsewhere in their search for midfield reinforcements, while the Partenopei prepare to welcome one of the most promising defensive midfielders in Europe.
