Manchester United Targets Midfield Overhaul Amid Potential Loss of Joao Gomes

Manchester United is set to undertake a significant overhaul of its midfield this summer, with £150 million allocated for player recruitment. The club plans to invest £80 million in a replacement for Casemiro, who is expected to leave, alongside £50 million for a successor to Manuel Ugarte. The remaining £20 million will be used to secure a third midfielder as a back-up option for added squad depth.

The Red Devils have identified numerous targets for these positions. However, one candidate might be crossed off the list as Atletico Madrid nears an agreement to sign him. According to Alex Crook on X, Atletico Madrid is closing in on a £39 million (€45 million) deal for Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Joao Gomes. United had previously considered Gomes during the winter transfer window, but a move did not materialize.

Besides Joao Gomes, United had also shown interest in Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid, who ultimately signed with Tottenham Hotspur. As Gomes now emerges as a potential replacement for the former England international, Atletico finds itself in a favorable position due to Wolves’ relegation from the Premier League, making a sale more likely.

For Manchester United, Gomes was not among the top priorities for replacing Casemiro; instead, Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson and Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali are being considered for that role. Nonetheless, Gomes could serve as a suitable option to succeed Ugarte. The agreement between Atletico and Wolves is not finalized yet, which leaves the door open for United to make a move for the 25-year-old if desired.