Wolverhampton now appear significantly closer to losing João Gomes, with fresh reports from Brazil suggesting Atlético Madrid have already taken a major step towards completing a deal.
The midfielder has been one of Wolves’ standout performers despite the club’s relegation to the Championship. Over recent days, reports linked both Atlético Madrid and Crystal Palace with interest in the 25-year-old.
Now, however, the situation has moved forward quickly.
According to ESPN Brazil, Atlético Madrid already have a verbal agreement in place with João Gomes and are advancing towards a full transfer agreement with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Atlético move ahead after Ederson setback
The report explains Atlético had narrowed their midfield search down to two Brazilian targets – João Gomes and Atalanta’s Ederson.
As reported elsewhere in recent days, Diego Simeone’s side initially pushed harder for Ederson. However, Atalanta increased their demands and complicated negotiations. Manchester United are now really close to securing his transfer.
That opened the door for João Gomes to become the priority option.
ESPN state Atlético have already aligned terms verbally with the player himself. The Spanish club are now expected to pay around €45m (£38.5m) to complete the signing.
That number slightly differs from previous reports surrounding Wolves’ valuation. Recent Portuguese claims suggested Wolves wanted around £40m (€46m).
The latest information may indicate Atlético believe relegation has weakened Wolves’ negotiating position. Equally, it could suggest the clubs are simply converging towards a compromise figure.
Wolves rebuild accelerating
João Gomes’ likely departure increasingly looks part of a wider Wolves rebuild. The report again stresses the club will sell important players following relegation.
João Gomes is one of the headline names, but fellow Brazilian midfielder André is also attracting attention. According to ESPN, the former Fluminense player has enquiries from Juventus and other European sides.
That creates the possibility of Wolves losing both starting midfielders in the same window.
From Atlético’s perspective, João Gomes fits naturally into Simeone’s system. His intensity, defensive work and ball-winning ability have consistently stood out, even during Wolves’ difficult campaign.
He made 38 appearances this season and remained one of the few reliable performers inside a struggling side.
What happens next
This latest information pushes the story much further forward by indicating personal terms are already effectively agreed.
That places pressure on Wolves. If Atlético formally meet the expected €45m (£38.5m) figure, negotiations could accelerate quickly.
It also leaves Crystal Palace in a more difficult position. Palace had only recently made preliminary contact with João Gomes’ camp, but Atlético now appear well ahead in the race.
For Wolves, now it’s all about finalising the structure and value of the deal.
