According to MARCA, Atletico Madrid have made Joao Gomez their priority midfield target following the sale of Conor Gallagher to Tottenham Hotspur.
Diego Simeone’s side are actively looking for a dynamic, ball-winning midfielder to replace Gallagher’s intensity and work rate, and they believe the Wolves star has those qualities in abundance.
But Atlético are not alone in their pursuit. Manchester United and Napoli are also keeping a close eye on Gomez, with the stage set for a multi-club battle for one of the Premier League’s most hard-working midfielders.
Manchester United considers Gomez as Casemiro’s successor
CaughtOffside’s sources say Man United feel Gomez could be the “perfect” replacement for Casemiro at the club.
With Casemiro entering the final months of his contract at Man United, the club have been considering a potential long-term replacement for several months.
United’s midfield has been one of their biggest weaknesses this season, with Manuel Ugarte struggling to form and Coby Mainu still developing.
Gomez represents the type of person United are looking for: young, athletic, aggressive and proven in the Premier League.
The club has been intensively tracking him since the summer and scouting reports have been overwhelmingly positive.
Atletico Madrid could complicate United’s plans
Atlético’s sudden arrival greatly complicates the situation. With Gallagher gone, Simeone is looking for a midfielder who can reflect the physicality, grit and engine required of his system.
The lure of Atlético is strong for many South American players, and Gomez could be lured by the opportunity to play in La Liga under one of the world’s most respected defensive coaches.
Given his contract status and importance to the team, the Timberwolves are under no pressure to sell him, but could be forced to reconsider any big offer.
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