The Premier League proven midfielder who idolises Casemiro who Man Utd could still sign for under £50m

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Manchester United’s transfer strategy is being put to the test this summer.

In 2025, Manchester United used a ‘Premier League proven’ strategy to raise the floor of the club’s attack, with moves for Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha.

United’s attempts to reproduce this model to sign midfielders has so far hit a brick wall. United held interest in Elliot Anderson, Matheus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali. All three have moved elsewhere for fees in excess of £85 million.

It is a market United refuse to indulge, believing the value is not right for any of the trio, as the club attempt to replace Casemiro.

United are believed to have two options now…

• Join the party and pay big for a Premier League midfielder, eg. Alex Scott, Adam Wharton
• Look for cheaper value abroad and take a gamble on a more unproven player

But there is a third option.

• Sign a bargain Premier League proven player who is available.

Step forward Joao Gomes.

Joao Gomes is still available

Joao Gomes had been set to sign for Atletico Madrid. This deal has now collapsed and they are set to sign Morten Hjulmand from Sporting instead.

Goal report Atletico have abandoned the chase for Gomes following a breakdown in relations with his agent Jorge Mendes.

Atletico had moved to sign Gomes from Wolves after missing out on Atalanta midfielder Ederson to Manchester United.

Now, United could still swoop in to add Gomes now he risks being stuck with relegated Wolves.

The fee for Gomes’ move to Atletico was due to be just £40 million.

Gomes has made 130 total appearances for Wolves since signing for the club in January 2023 from Flamengo.

At 25, Gomes is at a good age and is ready for a step up. He was a consistent performer for Wolves last season despite their relegation. He scored in their 2-0 win over Aston Villa late in the season.

He was one of Wolves’ key players when they held United to a 0-0 draw at Old Trafford at the end of December.

Joao Gomes could be what United need

While Gomes did not make the Brazil squad for World Cup 2026, he has made 10 international appearances for his country.

Gomes idolises Casemiro and he also ‘liked’ the midfielder’s post announcing his exit from Manchester United earlier this year.

We wrote earlier this year that signing Gomes would be a smart way to kick off the summer. If United could do a deal quickly, Gomes could still be signed in time for pre-season.

He told Wolves media last year: “I think the way I play goes hand in hand with the league’s pace.

“The matches are more physical, there’s more fight over the ball, so I would say so. I think I was born to play here.”

Gomes and Ederson would raise United’s floor alongside Kobbie Mainoo, and still leave room for the club to splash on a more eye-catching third signing.