Manchester United is actively seeking to overhaul their team during the upcoming summer transfer window, with reports suggesting that Sir Jim Ratcliffe has his sights set on acquiring a highly-regarded Premier League player to strengthen the midfield.
Under Erik ten Hag’s management, significant investments have been made in players like Casemiro and Mason Mount, yet neither has fully justified their hefty price tags thus far. Instead, the team has often relied on the performances of players like Scott McTominay and young talent Kobbie Mainoo.
Casemiro is expected to depart in the summer, with interest from Saudi Arabia, and according to The Mirror, Wolves’ standout Joao Gomes is being considered as a potential replacement. Gomes, who joined Wolves for £12 million last year, has impressed with notable displays, including scoring both goals in a recent victory over Tottenham.
Amid speculation about Gomes potentially earning his first cap for Brazil against England, it’s believed that his acquisition is part of Ratcliffe’s strategy to veer away from United’s tendency to splash out on high-profile signings.
Wolves have reportedly begun searching for replacements, with Tottenham and Newcastle also expressing interest, and it’s anticipated that Wolves will demand a fee exceeding £40 million for the talented midfielder.
Despite Gomes’ reputation as a hard-working player, characterized by his nickname ‘The Pitbull’ in Brazil, concerns linger about his passing accuracy, which currently stands at 82.5%, below the standard for top midfielders in Europe.
While Gomes has shown improvement in his recent performances, United may need to carefully consider whether his style aligns with their needs. Analysis from SciSports suggests that United might not be the ideal fit for Gomes, with West Ham or remaining at Wolves potentially better suited to his playing style.
United’s quest for a defensive-minded midfielder to complement players like Mainoo, Mount, and McTominay, who excel in attacking roles, suggests they may be searching for qualities that Gomes lacks, such as a high volume of progressive passes.
Although United may believe they can develop Gomes’ skills or utilize his strengths as a tough tackler, questions remain about whether he possesses the technical ability to transform Ten Hag’s midfield in the same way as players like Rodri or Declan Rice do for United’s competitors.
While United’s pursuit of cost-effective signings is commendable, it remains uncertain whether Gomes is the solution to Ten Hag’s midfield puzzle at Old Trafford.