Manchester United find themselves fighting to climb into the Champions League slots and now appear to be closing in on the signing of a midfielder to help their aspirations of competing with their rivals.
The Red Devils have taken time to get going this season, and Ruben Amorim has needed to face his fair share of criticism amid scrutiny when results haven’t gone in the favour of the Old Trafford outfit.
Still, a run of five Premier League matches unbeaten before the international break has been enough to restore confidence among an expectant fanbase, who appreciate that the former Sporting boss is trying to implement a complex system that will take time to fully perfect.
With Lisandro Martinez nearing a return to full fitness, Amorim was asked before his side’s clash with Everton whether the Argentinian defender could be an unlikely solution to step into the breach. However, he moved to play down any notion that he could fill the vacant hole in the engine room.
He said: “A smart, intelligent football player can play in a lot of positions, but it is not the right position for him. I feel Licha is becoming close to be ready able to play. We need to be careful, but he is clearly in a better position.”
Come January, it feels likely that Manchester United will look to find a long-term solution with Casemiro coming towards the twilight years of his career.
Brighton & Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba is a long-term Red Devils’ target, albeit his £115 million valuation is likely to put their pursuit of the Cameroon international to bed.
That being said, Manchester United and INEOS could now be willing to go in a different direction as they close in on the arrival of another talent from the English top-flight.
Man Utd in advanced talks to sign Joao Gomes from Wolves
According to Trivela, Manchester United’s discussions to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers star Joao Gomes have progressed to advance stages in recent days as they look to complete a deal in January that could be worth in the region of £44 million.
The Brazilian star could put the cat among the pigeons regarding Kobbie Mainoo’s long-term future at the club if he were to come in after registering a solitary assist in 15 appearances this campaign.
Five similar players to Joao Gomes (FBRef)
Djaoui Cisse
Rennes
Thomas Partey
Villarreal
Ilaix Moriba
Celta Vigo
Junior Mwanga
Nantes
Kevin Danois
Auxerre
Rob Edwards is keen for the 24-year-old to stay in the West Midlands despite Wolves staring down the barrel at relegation to the Championship, something that a move to Old Trafford could alleviate if he were to seek a new career challenge.
Dubbed as someone who gives “everything” by Vitor Pereira, he would represent a younger upgrade on some of Amorim’s current crop in midfield, albeit it remains to be seen whether they can push a deal over the line once the window opens.
Man Utd now make approach to sign exciting gem who shone at U17 World Cup