West Ham United are preparing to challenge Manchester United for the signature of England international and former Red Devil, Angel Gomes, according to recent reports.
Gomes, a product of Manchester United’s academy at Carrington, was regarded as a bright prospect when he made his senior debut in 2017 at the age of 16.
However, limited opportunities under managers Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer saw him leave the club for Lille on a free transfer in 2020.
The midfielder has since excelled in Ligue 1, finishing last season as the joint-highest assist provider. His impressive performances earned him a call-up to the England national team under Lee Carsley earlier this season.
With his contract at Lille set to expire this summer, speculation is mounting about a return to the Premier League.
Reports in November suggested that Manchester United were eager to re-sign Gomes, with head coach Ruben Amorim endorsing the move.
However, talkSPORT now claims that West Ham has entered the fray. Under new manager Graham Potter, the Hammers are eager to strengthen their squad, and Gomes has emerged as a key target.
West Ham are also exploring the possibility of signing Gomes’ Lille teammate, Jonathan David. The Canadian striker, whose contract also ends this summer, has been in scintillating form, scoring 17 goals and providing seven assists in 30 games this season. David’s performances have drawn interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham as well.
Gomes has previously admitted he has a “sentimental soft spot” for Manchester United, hinting that a return to Old Trafford would be difficult to decline.
Club legend Andy Cole is among those backing the potential move, saying Gomes would undoubtedly improve the current squad.
“I was disappointed when Gomes left,” Cole stated. “He’s an incredibly talented player. People doubted his ability to adapt to the Premier League, but he’s proven himself in France and even earned international recognition. Fair play to him.”
For now, both United and West Ham are focused on their upcoming fixtures. Manchester United will host Brighton on Sunday as they look to maintain their strong start to 2025, while West Ham face London rivals Crystal Palace on Saturday.