Reports suggest that Arsenal are getting serious in their pursuit of Wolverhampton Wanderers‘ midfield dynamo, João Gomes.

The Gunners are reportedly preparing to make a formal offer for the Brazilian starlet, potentially outmanoeuvring their rivals Manchester United.

BURNLEY, ENGLAND - APRIL 02: Joao Gomes of Wolverhampton Wanderers arrives at the stadium the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Turf Moor on April 02, 2024 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
BURNLEY, ENGLAND – APRIL 02: Joao Gomes of Wolverhampton Wanderers arrives at the stadium the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Turf Moor on April 02, 2024 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Gomes’ impressive form since arriving at Wolves from Flamengo in January 2023 has caught the attention of top Premier League clubs. His combative style, tireless work rate, and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively have made him a valuable asset for Wolves.

While Manchester United are also reportedly interested in Gomes, sources indicate that Arsenal are moving ahead in the transfer race. The Gunners are said to be preparing a formal offer, a sign of their serious intentions to secure the young midfielder’s services.

WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND - APRIL 06: Joao Gomes of Wolverhampton Wanderers celebrates after teammate Max Kilman (not pictured) scores his team's second goal but is later disallowed due to an offside on teammate Tawanda Chirewa (not pictured) during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham United at Molineux on April 06, 2024 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND – APRIL 06: Joao Gomes of Wolverhampton Wanderers celebrates after teammate Max Kilman (not pictured) scores his team’s second goal but is later disallowed due to an offside on teammate Tawanda Chirewa (not pictured) during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham United at Molineux on April 06, 2024 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

Gomes’ potential arrival at the Emirates would strengthen Arsenal‘s already formidable midfield. His tenacity and ball-winning skills could complement the likes of Declan Rice, adding depth and versatility to Mikel Arteta‘s options.

Still young, Gomes has enormous potential for growth. Securing his signature would be a shrewd investment for Arsenal, allowing them to develop a player who could become a midfield anchor for years to come.

Gomes is currently valued at around €28m after costing Wolves €18.7m a little over a year ago. He is under contract until 2028, with an option for an additional year meaning any deal would not come cheap.

He has three goals and one assist in 42 games for Wolves.