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Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Joao Gomes has made his position on a potential January move to Manchester United clear as the price for getting a deal over the line is revealed.
United eyeing midfield reinforcements
Having primarily focused on bolstering Ruben Amorim’s attacking options during the summer, United’s attention is now expected to shift towards rebuilding the midfield.
The middle of the park is in dire need of strengthening, especially with the futures of Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo extremely uncertain. Casemiro is in the final year of his Old Trafford contract while Mainoo is exploring an exit amidst limited playing time under Amorim.
Over the past few weeks, Gomes’ name has kept popping up in relation to a potential January switch to United.
Despite Wolves’ struggles this term, Gomes continues to do well. In the Premier League, he ranks in the 92nd and 78th percentiles for tackles and interceptions respectively.
The Brazilian is also in the 89th percentile for duels won in the top flight.
Joao Gomes’ stats
| Defending Statistic | Total | Per 90 or % | Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tackles | 27 | 2.91 | 92 |
| Interceptions | 10 | 1.08 | 78 |
| Ground Duels | 123 | 13.24 | 89 |
| Ground Duels Won | 58 | 6.24 | 86 |
| Aerial Duels Won | 10 | 1.08 | 53 |
| Dribbled Past | 18 | 1.94 | 1 |
| Clearances | 16 | 1.72 | 49 |
| Shots Blocked | 3 | 0.32 | 66 |
(Stats obtained from Footystats)
A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Wolves could be powerless to stop Gomes from leaving Molineux if they are relegated.
Now, Record Portugal claim that Gomes may not even be willing to wait that long, as he eyes a January transfer to United.
Gomes outlines transfer stance
According to the Lisbon-based news outlet, Amorim views Gomes as a cheaper alternative to the likes of Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest) and Carlos Baleba (Brighton and Hove Albion).
Gomes “has not ruled out” a January move to United. The Brazilian is valued at €50m (£44m).
It’s unclear whether United would be willing to fork out such an amount for a player during the winter window.
United are also interested in Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher, who could be obtained on an initial loan deal. With some tactful negotiation, United could even snap up Gallagher without an obligation to make his signing a permanent one.
Featured image Naomi Baker via Getty Images
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