Crystal Palace are already shaping plans for the summer window, and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ relegation has opened up a clear opportunity in midfield.

With Wolves dropping to the Championship, several of their key players are now expected to leave. João Gomes is quickly emerging as one of the most realistic targets for Premier League clubs looking to strengthen in that area.

Reports from Brazilian journalist Bruno Andrade, speaking on ESPN Brazil, indicate that Wolves have effectively placed a number of players on the market. The reasoning is both tactical and financial.

The club believe the Championship will demand a different profile of midfielder, while also recognising the risk of market devaluation if they keep high-value assets. João Gomes fits firmly into that category.

Wolves ready to cash in after relegation

Despite Wolves’ struggles as a team this season, João Gomes has maintained a strong individual level. That is central to the club’s strategy.

The idea is to sell while his stock remains high, and Crystal Palace are keen. Wolves want to avoid a scenario where a year in the Championship reduces both visibility and transfer value.

According to data from FBref and WhoScored, the Brazilian has remained one of Wolves’ most active midfielders. He has averaged over 2 tackles per 90 minutes and consistently ranks high for ball recoveries.

Andrade explains that the expectation internally is to seal João Gomes’ exit once the European season ends.

Crystal Palace interest – Atlético also in the mix

Crystal Palace have already shown concrete interest in João Gomes. The same applies to Atlético Madrid, who have been searching for midfield reinforcements for some time.

At this stage, it is still unclear whether formal negotiations have started. However, the interest is described as real and ongoing.

Palace have been building a more energetic and aggressive midfield under their current structure. João Gomes would fit naturally into a system that relies on pressing, duels and transitions.

Competition will be a factor, though. Atlético Madrid’s long-standing search for midfield balance means they are unlikely to step aside easily.

Earlier today, we also covered that Napoli is working towards a deal for him.

What happens next

João Gomes is expected to remain in Europe. A return to Brazil is seen as highly unlikely for now, despite financial power from clubs like Flamengo, Palmeiras and Cruzeiro.

For Crystal Palace, the situation is one to watch closely. Wolves are open to selling, the player is attracting attention, and the timing aligns with a market opportunity created by relegation.

The next step will depend on who moves first with a formal offer. Palace have positioned themselves early, but they are not alone in the race.

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