Summary
Manchester United Turn to Joao Gomes After Ederson Transfer Move Falls Through
Manchester United have changed their transfer strategy after abandoning their pursuit of Atalanta midfielder Ederson and are now exploring alternative options to strengthen Michael Carrick’s squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.
United entered the summer transfer window with the clear objective of signing two new central midfielders. However, with pre-season training now underway at Old Trafford, the club are yet to complete a midfield signing and have already missed out on several players believed to be on their shortlist.
Manchester United Miss Out on Several Major Transfer Targets
United’s top midfield priority at the beginning of the summer was Elliot Anderson, but the club failed to secure a deal for the Nottingham Forest and England midfielder. Manchester City eventually won the race for his signature in a £116 million transfer.
The Red Devils were also interested in West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes, but the Portuguese midfielder chose to join Tottenham instead in an £85 million deal. Sandro Tonali was another player linked with a potential move to Old Trafford, although he also ended up making the switch to Spurs.
Before the 2026 World Cup began, Manchester United reached an agreement with Atalanta to sign Ederson for £38 million. The Brazilian midfielder, who received a late call-up to Brazil’s World Cup squad, looked set to become United’s latest addition.
However, the transfer collapsed before completion, reportedly due to concerns surrounding the player’s medical examination.
Joao Gomes Emerges as Manchester United’s New Midfield Option
Following the failed move for Ederson, United have adjusted their plans and appear to have turned their attention toward Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Joao Gomes.
The club opened discussions with Gomes earlier in the summer but seemed to lose ground after his agent Jorge Mendes began negotiations with Atletico Madrid over a possible transfer. That move eventually failed to materialize, allowing United to re-enter the race for the Brazilian midfielder.
Gomes was a key figure for Wolves during the 2025/26 Premier League season, missing only three league matches throughout the campaign. One of those absences came in Wolves’ home fixture against Manchester United.
The 25-year-old has also earned strong praise, with the official Wolves podcast describing him as an “insane” player due to his energy, defensive ability, and influence in midfield.
How Much Could Joao Gomes Cost Manchester United?
Atletico Madrid appeared close to completing a €45 million (£38 million) deal for Gomes, a fee that matches the amount Manchester United were prepared to pay for Ederson.
United have now reopened talks with Wolves over a potential transfer, but they could face competition from Liverpool, who have also entered discussions with the Premier League club regarding the midfielder.
With their initial targets slipping away, Manchester United will hope Gomes can become the long-awaited midfield reinforcement they need before the start of the new season.