Manchester United once feared they'd have to fork out an astronomical fee like they did for Paul Pogba and Jadon Sancho to get Angel Gomes back - but their former academy gem will be available for nothing in the summer. For decades, joining Manchester United was seen as something of a career launchpad for players, but now, in many ways, it's the opposite.
These days, top stars often find their careers stagnating or regressing at Old Trafford, while those who leave frequently experience a resurgence. Case in point: Angel Gomes, who recently broke into the England national team setup. Gomes, 24, was on United's books for 14 years, having initially signed on as a six-year-old. As he rose through the ranks, the club were well aware of his potential and earmarked him for a place in the first team someday. He made his senior debut under Jose Mourinho, aged just 16, but spent most of the next three years on the bench or in the stands.
As a result, Gomes made the bold decision to leave, rejecting a substantial offer on his way out. According to The Evening Standard, United chiefs were immediately scared that he could turn into another Pogba or Sancho after his exit. He joined Lille in 2020 and has steadily blossomed into the player United always hoped he would become - just not in their colours. But according to reports, a return to Old Trafford could be on the cards in January.
Gomes' contract with Lille expires at the end of the season, which means the Red Devils have the opportunity to snap him up on the cheap - or possibly for free in the summer. Head coach Ruben Amorim is a big fan of the midfielder and reportedly considered making an approach for him while at Sporting CP.
