United’s hopes of landing midfield pitbull in January could be wrecked following PL side’s promise to their boss – report

While Ruben Amorim would love for Manchester United to recruit a midfielder in January, the signs are not looking too good at the moment. Carlos Baleba’s form is an issue, as is Brighton’s valuation of the Cameroonian. As things stand, both Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson have overtaken the Brighton star. However, both Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace are likely to fight tooth and nail to avoid losing their talismans in mid-season. As a result, INEOS are exploring alternatives, with Joao Gomes of Wolverhampton Wanderers among the names being discussed at the club. Joao Gomes on United’s radar Given the West Midlands club are rooted to the bottom of the Premier League table and are looking favourites for the drop, it seems inevitable that they will lose the Brazilian next summer. United could look to jump ahead of other suitors by launching a €50 million bid in January. However, Teamtalk have now revealed that Wolves plan to turn down all bids after their promise to new boss Rob Edwards. Edwards will need all the help he can get if he is to pull off the great escape, and the Molineux club have promised not to sell the 24-year-old in the winter. “Manchester United are unlikely to be able to sign Joao Gomes in the January transfer window, with sources revealing to TEAMtalk the promise that Wolves have made to their manager, Rob Edwards, about their star midfielder. “TEAMtalk can now reveal that Wolves have decided that they will not sell Gomes in the January transfer window and will block any approaches that happen to come their way. Wolves promise could end United’s hopes “Indeed, sources have confirmed that new Wolves manager Rob Edwards has been promised that the Old Gold will not cash in on Gomes during the winter window.” The Brazil international has been one of the few shining lights for Wolves, and it makes sense for them not to part ways in the middle of the season. INEOS are not exactly flush with cash at the moment following their summer splurge, and as things stand, a major January purchase can almost be ruled out unless an emergency occurs. Other Premier League-proven stars on the club’s radar include former Chelsea ace Conor Gallagher and ex-Wolves captain Ruben Neves. They will be much more cost-effective options. 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 Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25