United only expected to move for PL warrior next summer despite persistent January links – report

Manchester United’s recent unbeaten run came to a stuttering halt against Everton at the weekend, with Ruben Amorim’s team succumbing to a 1-0 defeat against the 10-man Toffees. The Red Devils had 70% possession on the night, registered 452 passes with 91% accuracy, and attempted 23 shots, six of which were on target, but it mattered little. The defeat highlighted the fact that, despite their recent resurgence, the English giants remain a work in progress. United are expected to focus on reinvigorating their midfield in 2026, with several players named as potential options. Recent reports state that the Red Devils have identified Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Joao Gomes as a candidate for the job. Gomes’ future remains uncertain Gomes has become a key figure for the Midlands club since arriving from Flamengo in 2023. He has already made 15 appearances across competitions this season, 11 of which have been starts. Joao Gomes Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League12–4-927′ EFL Cup3-11-116′ Total15-15-1,043′ Source: Transfermarkt Gomes is under contract at Molineux until 2030. However, with Wolves currently bottom of the Premier League table and in real danger of relegation, the 24 year old’s future remains up in the air. United, meanwhile, are looking for an athletic player to fill Casemiro’s boots, and Gomes fits the bill. According to recent reports, United are already in negotiations with Wolves to secure the player’s signature in January. However, a fresh report has provided a conflicting update. Summer move more likely According to Gazeta do UrUbU, United are not in advanced talks with the Midlands club over a January move for Gomes. There have been no formal meetings between the two clubs to discuss a possible move for the Brazilian. However, the report adds that the player remains on the English giants’ radar, and a summer move is considered a more realistic possibility. The transfer is not linked to Casemiro’s future either. Gomes, meanwhile, is open to joining United, as he believes that a move to the Theatre of Dreams would represent a step up in his career. Final Thoughts Prising Gomes away from Molineux in the middle of the season will be neither easy nor cheap. United could be tempted to wait for until the end of the season, although things could change if Kobbie Mainoo ends up leaving the Theatre of Dreams in January. However, should Wolves be relegated this season, the Brazilian could be available for a reduced fee next summer. Meanwhile, United already have set their sights on Carlos Baleba next year, so this saga could take an interesting turn in the coming months. Featured image Naomi Baker via Getty Images 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 Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.