Manchester United are monitoring Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder João Gomes as the club weighs fresh January reinforcements for Erik ten Hag’s squad, according to ESPN’s reporting.

United’s recruitment team has flagged the 23-year-old Brazilian as a strong candidate for their midfield rebuild, with the club seeking a younger, high-energy ball winner capable of adding aggression and control in the center of the pitch. Scouts have issued positive reviews across the first half of the season, highlighting Gomes’ tackling volume, pressing efficiency, and work rate.

Wolves, however, are expected to resist any mid-season approach. Gomes remains central to Gary O’Neil’s system and is under a long-term contract, meaning United would likely need to table a significant offer to open negotiations.

For United, the interest reflects broader concerns around midfield depth. Casemiro’s future remains uncertain, Christian Eriksen has struggled with fitness, and Sofyan Amrabat’s loan from Fiorentina has not yet resulted in a permanent decision. Club sources say United aim to add at least one long-term midfield piece in 2025.

Gomes has quickly become one of Wolves’ most important players since arriving from Flamengo, standing out with strong defensive metrics in duels, recoveries, and second-ball actions. His profile fits the mold United’s analytics department is prioritizing, particularly for a Premier League-ready option.

No formal bid has been submitted, and talks remain at the monitoring stage, but United are expected to continue tracking his performances ahead of the winter window.