The Brazilian midfielder is a top target for Diego Simeone and Manchester United, with Wolverhampton admitting a summer exit is likely if they drop to the Championship.
Wolverhampton’s disastrous Premier League campaign is forcing the club to plan for a difficult summer. Currently anchored at the bottom of the table with only one win this season, Wolves are reportedly resigned to losing their star midfielder, João Gomes, should the club fail to avoid relegation to the EFL Championship.
Atlético Madrid Enter the Fray According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Atlético Madrid are the latest European giants to express interest in the 24-year-old Brazilian. They join Manchester United in a high-stakes race for the defensive midfielder.
Despite the interest, Gomes has shown loyalty to the Molineux faithful and will not “force” a move during the January window. He remains committed to helping manager Rob Edwards in what looks like a monumental task to keep the club in the top flight.
The £40 Million Price Tag Wolverhampton’s stance is clear: they intend to keep Gomes until the end of the 2025/26 season. However, if the club is relegated, they will open talks for a fee starting at £40 million.
Having signed the player from Flamengo in 2023 for approximately €18.7 million, Wolves are guaranteed a significant profit. While the asking price sits slightly above his Transfermarkt valuation, both Atleti and United view the fee as accessible for a player of his work rate and Premier League experience.
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Statistical Impact A regular starter in the Wolves’ engine room, João Gomes has made 24 appearances this season. While he hasn’t scored, his primary role as a defensive screen has been vital; he has provided one assist and remains one of the league’s top tacklers despite the team’s overall struggles.
With a contract running until 2030, Wolves hold the leverage in negotiations, but the reality of Championship football may make a summer transfer to Madrid or Manchester inevitable for the “Pitbull.”
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
