Wolves’ Joao Gomes has constantly been linked with an exit, and Napoli are growing increasingly confident about signing him.
The midfielder has played 37 times in all competitions this season, contributing to four goals. Without ignoring Wolves have been relegated, it is fair to say that Gomes was one of their better players in the campaign.
In January, Napoli had agreed personal terms with the Brazilian. This was covered extensively by Sport Witness, as the Italians believed Napoli’s discussions with Wolves were difficult.
Rob Edwards’ side wanted €40m for a permanent deal in January but the Partenopei were waiting for their possible relegation. The hope is this would hand them a discount and help them execute a favourable deal.
Now that that has happened, today’s Gazzetta dello Sport go deeper into the situation.
Confidence about Gomes’ stance
The newspaper make it clear that Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa’s future in Naples is uncertain. There is also a chance that Stanislav Lobotka departs in the summer as he has a €25m release clause which is valid for foreign clubs.
This is making Napoli consider Gomes as a major midfield addition.
Sporting director Giovanni Manna has done a very good job at finding undervalued players from the Premier League. Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour are classic examples.
He views the Wolves star as a perfect signing in the summer.
It is believed that the list of suitors for the 25-year-old is quite long. But Napoli’s persuasion is working and Gomes has opened up to a move to the Maradona Stadium.
This is giving Napoli hope of pulling off a deal, with Manchester United and Atletico Madrid previously mentioned as suitors.
The midfielder is also viewed as an ‘ace from the deck’ who can aid their midfield worries.
Our take: Napoli may have advantage
It is fair to say that if a player like Gomes is available, many clubs will be racing to sign him. Arguably, other teams may have more financial prowess than Napoli but it feels like Antonio Conte’s side have a solid foundation for a move.
They probably sensed the chance back in January and started working before anyone else.
This will only help Wolves in earning as much as they can from the sale. They can easily spark an auction and force Napoli into paying more. The Partenopei are in desperate need of midfield signings and are much more financially stable than other Italian sides.
Besides, if they sell Lobotka and Zambo Anguissa, they will earn enough money to sign Gomes.
