Manchester United fans may have felt a pang of frustration when reports surfaced that Atletico Madrid were closing in on Joao Gomes. After all, the Wolves midfielder has been a long-term target for the Red Devils and looks like the perfect successor to Casemiro—especially with Wolves' relegation potentially making him available at a bargain price.

It's easy to see why United supporters are eager for INEOS to make a move. Gomes is a tenacious, box-to-box midfielder who combines relentless defensive work rate with intelligent ball recovery and the ability to drive forward. He's the kind of complete engine-room operator that any top club would love to have.

But just as hope seemed to fade, new reports suggest the race is far from over. According to Caught Offside, while Atletico have held talks with the Brazilian, no formal bids have been submitted. Once the transfer window opens, Wolves are expected to receive a flurry of offers—and the most likely outcome is that Gomes stays in the Premier League.

With United and Liverpool leading the chase at around £40 million, it's shaping up to be a fascinating battle. And while a tug-of-war with Liverpool is never easy, it's one INEOS should relish. The chance to shine at Old Trafford and succeed his compatriot Casemiro could be exactly what a 25-year-old with Brazil's midfield legacy in his sights needs.