Liverpool are threatening to derail Manchester United’s plans to strengthen their midfield after making contact over a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder João Gomes, according to reports.
United have already reshaped their midfield this summer following the arrivals of Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa. However, the club remains keen to add another central midfielder after missing out on several targets, including Elliot Anderson, Mateus Fernandes and Atalanta’s Ederson, whose proposed move collapsed following a failed medical.
João Gomes has now emerged as one of the leading candidates on United’s shortlist, but Liverpool have entered the race after the Brazilian’s expected move to Atlético Madrid fell through. Reports from Brazil claim the Reds have already opened discussions with Wolves, matching United’s interest in the 25-year-old.
Atlético had reportedly agreed a deal worth around €45 million (£38 million) for Gomes before negotiations broke down, leaving the midfielder available once again. That valuation is now expected to serve as the benchmark for any club hoping to sign him this summer.
Liverpool are also keeping tabs on Manu Koné, another midfielder who has attracted strong interest from Manchester United.
The France international, currently at Roma, has been identified as another possible addition at Anfield. Reports suggest Roma would be prepared to consider offers in the region of €55 million (£47 million) as they look to improve their financial position. United have also made enquiries for Koné, setting up another potential battle between the Premier League rivals.
Liverpool’s transfer strategy could ultimately depend on departures.
Inter Milan continue to pursue Curtis Jones, while speculation has also surrounded the future of Alexis Mac Allister, although no agreement has been reached regarding the Argentina international. Should Liverpool lose one of their current midfielders, they are expected to accelerate plans to recruit a replacement.
For Manchester United, the priority remains adding further quality to the engine room as Michael Carrick prepares for a return to Champions League football. Gomes and Koné are viewed as players capable of complementing the club’s new midfield additions, but Liverpool’s growing interest could complicate negotiations.
With Atlético Madrid no longer in contention, the race for Gomes appears set to become a straight fight between England’s two biggest rivals. Whether Liverpool pursue both Gomes and Koné or focus on just one target could prove decisive in shaping Manchester United’s remaining transfer business before the window closes.
