'It is just that, a rumour' - Sunderland and Rangers-linked Morecambe forward Carlos Mendes Gomes opens up about his future

The in-demand 22-year-old winger scored 16 goals in League Two this season – including the winner in the play-off final against Newport County as Morecambe won promotion to League One last weekend.

Sunderland are one of several clubs to have been credited with a strong interest in Gomes, with Scottish giants Rangers also linked.

He has, though, played down talk of a move north of the border.

There are reports Morecambe have activated an extra-year on his contract to avoid him leaving on a free transfer this summer, though his future remains a fierce topic of debate.

Gomes said: "The Rangers thing is a rumour. And at the moment, it is just that, a rumour.

"Morecambe have just given me the happiest day of my career. That day at Wembley will be something I will be able to tell my grandchildren.

"I've had to travel down a long road for moments like this.

"When I first arrived in England I contacted Bolton, Wigan and Rochdale. They all said they would be in touch but no one called.

"I found a team in the ninth tier of English football - West Didsbury and Chorlton and shortly afterwards, Morecambe got in touch. I went on trial there and they signed me.

"I arrived with the intention of taking over the world, but I had to wait for my chance. The second year I did not play and even asked to go on loan. It wasn't until Derek Adams came along that I started playing regularly.

"To come from there to score the winning goal at one of the most famous stadiums in the world where all the best stars have played has been incredible.

"We made history with Morecambe and I am very proud."

Sunderland are looking to revamp their squad as they bid to win promotion back to the Championship at the fourth attempt.

Seven players will leave when their contracts expire at the end of June including Grant Leadbitter, Josh Scowen and Max Power.

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