Wolves midfielder João Gomes is reportedly turning down clubs left and right this summer, including Leeds United, even when some of them are offering more money than Atlético Madrid.
The Brazilian has quickly become one of Wolves’ biggest assets following relegation to the Championship. Recent reports already suggested Atlético were moving strongly for the 25-year-old, with talks advancing towards a deal worth around €45m (£38.5m).
Now there is a clearer picture of how the player himself is approaching the situation.
According to journalist Pablo Oliveira, João Gomes rejected approaches from Zenit Saint Petersburg, Atalanta, Galatasaray and even Leeds United.
The interesting part is that some of those offers were apparently financially better than Atlético Madrid’s.
João Gomes seems to have made up his mind
That says quite a lot about where this story is heading.
The Atlético Madrid opportunity is reportedly viewed as unique by the midfielder. That is understandable when you look at the bigger picture – Diego Simeone, Champions League football and the chance to compete near the top of La Liga.
João Gomes does not appear interested in simply securing the biggest contract available. And as a result, several clubs have already been pushed aside.
The Leeds United angle stands out a bit. João Gomes adapted well to English football and could easily have stayed in the country. Instead, he seems ready for something different.
Atalanta being mentioned is also interesting. Atlético initially looked at Ederson before switching attention towards João Gomes. Now the Italian club themselves are among the sides reportedly unable to convince him.
Wolves now waiting for next step
From Wolves’ side, things are becoming clearer too.
The club still hold a strong position because João Gomes is under contract until 2028. Earlier reports suggested Wolves wanted around €46m (£40m), while Atlético’s expected offer is currently around €45m (£38.5m). It’s hardly a gap.
Also, once a player starts rejecting multiple clubs and clearly leaning towards one destination, negotiations usually become more straightforward.
Turning down clubs from England, Italy, Turkey and Russia – especially with some offering more money – makes it look like the midfielder has already chosen the direction he wants to go.
Unless another top European club suddenly changes the picture, Atlético Madrid now appear to be in an extremely strong position.
