Liverpool and Manchester United have opened formal talks to sign a relegated £40m midfielder.
Every single summer transfer window follows a familiar script, but few plot twists carry quite as much weight as a direct, head-to-head battle with North West rivals Manchester United.
When a genuine market opportunity opens up, it’s rarely long before Liverpool find themselves at the forefront of queue and right now, the stage is set for a major battle over a relegated midfield powerhouse who looks destined to be on his way to Merseyside.
According to reports from trusted Brazilian outlet GE Globo, Liverpool and Manchester United have both opened formal talks to secure Wolverhampton Wanderers star Joao Gomes. For those tracking Liverpool's business, the 25-year-old Brazilian international midfielder represents precisely what the squad need after a dissapointing 2025/2026 season
Too often during the previous campaign, supporters watched the disconnect between the squad on the pitch and looked far too open and fragile.
When the high press broke down, opposition runners use to charge straight through the central areas, leaving the backline completely exposed. Richard Hughes and the recruitment team want practical steel rather than a luxury name, and at around £40 million, this represents a sensible piece of business the club must consider.
Atletico collapse hands Reds transfer incentive
Only weeks ago, a move to Anfield seemed completely off the cards for the 25-year-old. The Brazilian international midfielder had previously agreed on a £39 million switch to Atletico Madrid.
However, negotiations hit a complete standstill over a rift with agent Jorge Mendes.Diego Simeone’s side ultimately walked away from the table and instead they've gone on to wrap up a £42 million deal for Sporting Lisbon's Morten Hjulmand.
With the La Liga side out of the race, Liverpool moved quickly. Reports from GE Globo confirm Anfield hierachy have initiated formal contact with Wolves to discuss a fee.
A Premier League proven machine for Iraola
Stylistically, the Brazilian midfielder suits the specific demands of new head coach Andoni Iraola. He relies on high-intensity duels, relentless stamina, and a willingness to compete.
As many Reds would have seen first-hand during the head-to-head fixtures with Wolves, Joao Gomes has an exceptional ability to win second balls and completely stop counter-attacks from the defensive midfield position.
The 25-year-old Brazilian international boasts relentless energy and a wealth of top-flight experience. Having made 35 Premier League appearances last season, the midfielder knows the league inside out, meaning he carries almost zero adaptation risk if he seals a move to Anfield
Having joined Wolves from Flamengo in January 2023 for £15 million, his rapid development earned him the fans Player of the Season award for the 24/25 campaign. Despite missing out on Brazil's final World Cup squad, the defensive midfielder remains part of the Selecao with 10 caps to his name
While United can wave financial muscle, the player has already made his career preferences explicitly clear. Speaking to ESPN Brazil, he did not hide his ultimate ambition.
"Liverpool is a team I would play for," he said. "I have the greatest desire to play. Playing in the Champions League is my biggest dream and that of my family, my biggest dream in football."
With Atletico Madrid out of the picture and the player pulling for a move to Merseyside, the opportunity is there.
The Reds can't afford to stall. Securing the 25-year-old Brazilian international would fix a current major issue and hand the Reds an early psychological blow over their rivals before a ball is even kicked.
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