Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Joao Gomes is poised to undergo a medical examination as he prepares to complete a move to local rivals Aston Villa. The transfer, which has been the subject of intense speculation, is now in its final stages, with both clubs having agreed on a fee believed to be in the region of £20 million.
Medical Scheduled for Later This Week
Sources close to the deal have confirmed that Gomes will travel to Birmingham later this week to undergo the required medical checks. If all goes smoothly, the Brazilian international will sign a four-year contract with the option of a further year, making him Villa's second signing of the January transfer window.
The 22-year-old joined Wolves from Flamengo in January 2022 for a fee of around £15 million. Since then, he has made 45 appearances for the Old Gold, scoring three goals and providing four assists. His performances have caught the eye of Villa manager Unai Emery, who sees him as a key addition to his midfield options.
Villa's Midfield Reinforcements
Aston Villa have been active in the transfer market, looking to strengthen their squad for a push towards European qualification. The addition of Gomes would provide competition for places in central midfield, alongside the likes of Douglas Luiz, John McGinn, and Boubacar Kamara. Emery is believed to be a long-time admirer of Gomes, having tracked his progress since his time in Brazil.
Gomes is known for his energetic style of play, combining defensive solidity with an ability to drive forward with the ball. His versatility allows him to operate as a central midfielder or in a more advanced role, which would give Villa tactical flexibility.
Wolves Accept Offer
Wolves have reluctantly accepted the offer from Villa, recognizing the player's desire to move on. The Midlands club have already identified potential replacements, with talks underway for a midfield reinforcement before the window closes. Wolves manager Julen Lopetegui expressed his disappointment at losing the player but acknowledged the business decision.
According to sources, the deal includes a sell-on clause that would see Wolves receive a percentage of any future transfer fee. This structure protects Wolves' long-term interests while allowing Gomes to pursue a new challenge.
Impact on Both Clubs
For Aston Villa, the signing of Gomes represents a statement of intent as they look to build on their impressive form this season. The club currently sits in the top half of the Premier League table, and Emery is keen to add depth to his squad to maintain momentum.
Wolves, on the other hand, will need to reinvest the funds wisely to ensure they remain competitive. The club has been linked with several midfielders across Europe, and fans will be eager to see who arrives before the transfer deadline.
Gomes's move also highlights the growing trend of players moving between Midlands rivals, a rare occurrence in recent years. The last high-profile transfer between the two clubs was when Villa signed Matt Jarvis from Wolves in 2012.
Player's Perspective
Gomes is said to be excited about the prospect of working under Emery and playing in front of the Villa Park crowd. The Brazilian international has settled well in England but feels the time is right for a new challenge. He will hope to secure regular first-team football and continue his development in the Premier League.
His representatives have been in discussions with Villa for several weeks, and the player has already agreed personal terms. The medical is seen as a formality, with no major issues anticipated.
Conclusion
The transfer of Joao Gomes from Wolves to Aston Villa is set to be completed within days, pending the successful outcome of his medical. The deal represents a significant move for both clubs, with Villa strengthening their squad and Wolves securing a substantial fee. Fans on both sides will be watching closely as the transfer window enters its final phase.
