Man United and Liverpool both chase Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes after Atletico Madrid deal collapses

Manchester United and Liverpool are competing for Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes after his proposed €45 million (£38.3m) move to Atletico Madrid fell apart, according to reports in Portugal.

Globo reports that United first made contact with Gomes at the end of last season, only to find he had already agreed terms with Atletico. The deal subsequently collapsed after the player’s agent, Jorge Mendes, angered the Spanish club, prompting them to withdraw their interest entirely.

With Atletico out of the picture, United have renewed their pursuit — but Liverpool have also entered the race, making their own contact with the player’s camp. United manager Michael Carrick has identified central midfield as a priority area this summer after a move for Ederson was reported to have fallen through.

Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola is also looking to strengthen his squad during the window. The Reds have separately been linked with PSG winger Bradley Barcola, though Arsenal are understood to share that interest.

Gomes, a Brazil international, has been one of Wolves’ most consistent performers in recent seasons and his availability — should he formally push to leave Molineux — is likely to attract further interest beyond the two clubs already in contact.

With pre-season training now under way for Premier League clubs, both United and Liverpool will be looking to resolve their midfield business early as preparations for the 2026/27 campaign intensify.