From Molineux to Maradona: The Summer Pact for Joao Gomes and Wolves’ Chelsea Contingency
​In the volatile world of the January transfer window, most stories are about the “here and now.” However, the news breaking across the West Midlands and Southern Italy today, January 13, 2026, is firmly focused on the horizon. Reports from high-level sources, including Gianluca Di Marzio, indicate that Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder JoĂŁo Gomes has reached a “verbal agreement” to join Napoli in the summer of 2026.
​As Wolves battle to secure their Premier League status under Rob Edwards, the potential loss of their “Pitbull” in midfield is a bitter pill to swallow. Yet, the simultaneous emergence of Chelsea’s Dario Essugo as a primary replacement target suggests that Wolves are already planning a tactical evolution to survive a post-Gomes era.
​The Napoli Agreement: Why Gomes?
​The rumors surrounding Gomes and Napoli have intensified over the last 48 hours. After Napoli’s pursuit of Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo stalled, manager Antonio Conte reportedly pivoted to Gomes as the ideal engine for his high-intensity system.
​The appeal of the 24-year-old Brazilian international to Napoli is clear:
- ​The “Conte” Profile: Gomes leads the Premier League in successful tackles and progressive carries this season. His tenacity and “all-action” style are a perfect match for Conte’s tactical demands.
- ​The Summer Strategy: While Napoli is currently dealing with a midfield injury crisis, they have reportedly agreed to wait until June. This allows Wolves to keep their most vital player for their relegation dogfight while giving Napoli a marquee signing to build around for their 2026/27 European campaign.
- ​The Valuation: Despite Wolves being bottom of the table, Gomes’ contract runs until 2030. Reports suggest Napoli will have to shell out a fee in the region of £35m–£44m to finalize the deal.
​The Replacement: Who is Dario Essugo?
​If Gomes is the “Pitbull,” Wolves’ scouting department believes they have found his successor in Dario Essugo. The 20-year-old Portuguese midfielder, currently at Chelsea, has struggled for minutes in a squad bloated with expensive talent.
​The links to Essugo are not merely speculative. Wolves have a long-standing history of integrating Portuguese talent, and Essugo’s profile aligns almost perfectly with the “Gomes-shaped hole” that will open in July:
- ​Stamina and Strength: Much like Gomes, Essugo is known for his incredible physical engine and ball-winning ability.
- ​The Loan-to-Buy Route: Wolves are reportedly exploring a two-year loan deal with an option to buy. This would allow the club to reinvest the “Gomes funds” into other areas—such as their pursuit of a new strike partner for Jørgen Strand Larsen—while securing a top-tier young talent.
- ​The “Proven” Factor: Though he has lacked minutes at Chelsea, Essugo has impressed in cup competitions and is widely regarded as one of the most promising defensive midfielders in Europe.
​Tactical Shift: Life After the Pitbull
​Losing João Gomes will require a significant shift in how Rob Edwards sets up his team. Since his arrival from Flamengo in 2023, Gomes has been the heartbeat of the side, often covering the ground of two players to mask defensive deficiencies.
​The potential arrival of Essugo, alongside the emergence of Mateus Mane (who recently scored against Everton and Manchester United), suggests Wolves are moving toward a more technical, possession-oriented midfield. While they will lose the raw aggression of Gomes, Essugo offers a slightly higher ceiling in terms of ball distribution and tactical discipline.
The “World Cup” Motivation
​For Gomes, the move to Naples isn’t just about a change of scenery or a higher wage bracket. With the 2026 World Cup taking place in North America this summer, a high-profile move to the reigning Serie A contenders (currently battling Inter Milan for the top spot) cements his place in the Brazilian national team.
​For Wolves fans, the news is bittersweet. While the “agreement” allows them to keep their star man for the remainder of a grueling season, it marks the beginning of the end for one of the most beloved players of the Molineux era.
​The Verdict: A Masterstroke or a Risk?
​By agreeing to the deal now, Wolves’ hierarchy—led by the global influence of Edu—is attempting to bypass the “relegation discount” that often happens in May. If Wolves go down, Gomes’ value would typically plummet. By hashing out the terms now, Wolves are protecting their asset and securing their replacement before the market inflates.
​The “Green Light” from Gomes to Napoli may be the first domino to fall in a massive summer of change for Wolverhampton.