Lyon to trump Wolverhampton Wanderers in race to sign Flamengo midfelder Joao Gomes?

Wolverhampton Wanderers have reportedly been dealt a blow in the race to sign Flamengo midfielder Joao Gomes.

Julen Lopetegui has been looking to make a wide array of signings ever since his arrival at Molineux in November, and the West Midlands outfit are currently delivering for their recently-appointed head coach.

The addition of Matheus Cunha from Atletico Madrid was finalised before the start of the January transfer window, while Nice midfielder Mario Lemina was confirmed as a Wolves player last Friday.

If reports are to be believed, Pablo Sarabia should sign from Paris Saint-Germain over the next 48 hours, and it has previously been suggested that Gomes will become the fourth fresh face to move to the Premier League club.

However, according to journalist Vene Casagrande, that may no longer be the case due to interest from Lyon.

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Casagrande claims that the French club, who have recently been taken over, are prepared to better Wolves' offer for the 21-year-old.

While the English club are said to be ready to shell out €17m (£15m) over five instalments, Lyon are allegedly ready to pay €18m (£15.8m).

As a result, the progression of a transfer is reportedly delayed, with it unclear whether Wolves will be willing to match or better Lyon's proposal.

Wolves are well stocked for options in the centre of the pitch with Ruben Neves, Matheus Nunes, Joao Moutinho, Lemina, Joe Hodge and Boubacar Traore all competing for three places.

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Nevertheless, speculation persists that the likes of Neves and Nunes will not remain at Wolves past the end of this season, leaving Wolves to look to the future.

Neves has frequently been linked with a transfer to a bigger Premier League club or Barcelona, while Nunes is allegedly viewed as a potential addition by Liverpool.

Gomes has emerged as one of the most highly-regarded uncapped Brazilian players featuring in his homeland, playing a significant part in Flamengo's recent success.

Last season, Gomes featured in 12 of Flamengo's 13 matches in the Copa Liberatores, completing the 90 minutes in the final as his side edged out Athletico Paranaense.

In total, the defensive-minded midfielder has contributed three goals and three assists in 117 appearances in all competitions.