United in advanced talks to complete January signing of 24-yo star nicknamed “Pitbull’ – report

Manchester United have been reportedly following Joao Gomes’ progress since his time at Flamengo.  Gomes earned the nickname “The Pitbull” at Flamengo, owing to his fierce attitude, relentless work rate and aggressive tackles. The dynamic midfielder also caught the eye with his close control and composure in possession. After impressing in Brazil, Gomes moved to the Premier League in 2023, joining Wolves, who are now facing a battle to keep hold of one of their most important players amid a relegation battle. Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming his former club, Flamengo, are “quietly rooting” for him to join United, as the move to Wolves saw Flamengo retain a 10 per cent sell-on clause.  Manchester United closing in on Joao Gomes Now, Brazilian outlet Trivela claim Gomes is “close to changing clubs”. It is understood talks between United and Wolves have progressed in the recent days, and there is an expectation of a €50m (£44m) transfer being finalised once the winter window opens.  As far as Wolves are concerned, the idea of selling their best player doesn’t appear very realistic mid-season. Joao Gomes: Premier League Stats 2025/26 Season MetricValue XG0.36 XA0.47 Touches in the Opposition Box12 Crosses (Completed %)10 (50%) Passes (Completed %)444 (86%) Long Passes (Completed %)31 (55%) Minutes Played836 Dribbles (Completed %)16 (50%) Duels Won62 Aerial Duels Won10 Total Tackles27 Interceptions11 Blocks3 Source: Premier League Website However, the midfielder’s big-money move could help new manager Rob Edwards bring in multiple players that fit his vision.  Further, it has been previously reported that Gomes will jump ship if Wolves are relegated. In that scenario, the Molineux outfit may struggle to make a significant profit on their initial €18.7m investment.  Joao Gomes makes a lot of sense for Man United United, meanwhile, are crying out for a midfielder capable of properly challenging, and eventually replacing, Casemiro. The Brazilian veteran remains Ruben Amorim’s most reliable midfielder, but he often struggles in second half due to his declining physique.  Accordingly, Gomes has emerged as an attractive market opportunity. His Premier League experience and intense style of play should see him hit the ground running at Old Trafford.  The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!