Dave & Louis discuss who should stay, who should go and potential new players
The transfer window is heating up for Wolves, and fans are eager to see how Gary O’Neil plans to reshape the squad. With a focus on adding depth in forward areas and managing financial constraints, this window is crucial for the club’s 2024-25 campaign. Who’s on their way out? Who’s staying put? And what are the latest transfer rumours swirling around Molineux? This post will break down all the key moves and speculations, giving you a clear picture of what to expect as Wolves gear up for the new season.
Goalkeeper Situation
The Wolves’ goalkeeping crew is poised for potential change, making this an area to watch closely. Let’s dive into the specifics of each goalkeeper in the squad and the transfer needs that might arise.
Jose Sa
Jose Sa has been a dependable force between the sticks for Wolves, cementing his role as the first-choice goalkeeper. However, there are whispers of interest from Saudi Arabian clubs. Such offers might be tempting enough for Wolves to contemplate a sale.
What would a departure mean for Wolves?
- Increased financial resources: Selling Sa could bring in a substantial transfer fee.
- Recruitment pressure: The club would urgently need to find a capable replacement.
- Squad stability: Losing a key player could impact morale and performance.
While Sa’s contract runs until 2027, the lure of a high-profile transfer deal from Saudi Arabia is a scenario fans should keep an eye on.
Dan Bentley
Dan Bentley, currently the No. 2 goalkeeper, has a contract that ties him to Wolves until 2025, with an option to extend further. He provides solid backup but lacks Premier League experience, which raises concerns if Sa were to leave unexpectedly. Bentley’s presence ensures that there is no immediate rush to secure another backup, but his lack of top-flight minutes might be a worry.
Bentley’s Key Points:
- Reliable backup option.
- Contract security.
- Questionable Premier League experience.
Tom King
Tom King holds the role of the No. 3 goalkeeper. Valued for his dedication and contributions in training, he might not see much game time but remains a key figure in the dressing room.
Tom King’s Contributions:
- Strong training performances.
- Positive dressing room influence.
- Reliable backup, if needed.
Transfer Needs
Given the current goalkeeping setup, Wolves’ priorities in the transfer market hinge on Jose Sa’s future. If Sa stays, the club might not need additional signings in this position. However, if he leaves, they will need to act swiftly.
Considerations for Wolves:
- If Sa stays:
- Maintain current squad balance.
- Focus resources on other areas.
- If Sa leaves:
- Immediate search for a first-choice goalkeeper.
- Integrate a new player into the team dynamics quickly.
This juncture presents a pivotal moment for Wolves’ goalkeeping department as they prepare for the challenges of the new season. Whether the current roster holds firm or new faces join, fans can expect to see strategic moves to secure the goal.
Defensive Lineup
Wolves’ defensive setup is seeing a lot of interest and speculation this transfer window. Let’s break down the status of each defender and what the future might hold for them.
Maximilian Kilman
Maximilian Kilman, Wolves’ stalwart, has been a rock-solid presence in the backline. But interest from big clubs is swirling around him, especially from Napoli and West Ham. A year ago, Wolves turned down a £30 million bid, but if an offer over £40 million comes in, they might reconsider. Kilman’s potential departure could reshape the defensive strategy and lead to significant changes in the back four.
Toti Gomes
Toti Gomes is firmly in Wolves’ plans for the upcoming season. His consistent performances and reliability have made him a key figure in the defensive lineup. Unlike Kilman, there isn’t much speculation about his departure, and he is expected to remain at Molineux, contributing significantly to the team’s stability.
Craig Dawson
Craig Dawson’s experience is invaluable to the squad. Although his contract is due to expire next year, Wolves are considering an extension. However, this isn’t an immediate concern, as there are more urgent matters. Fans can expect him to continue his leadership role for at least another season.
Santi Bueno
Santi Bueno made an impressive start to his Wolves career last season, and there are high hopes for his future. Expected to get more playing time, Bueno is likely to be a regular in the defensive setup. His early impacts suggest he could develop into a crucial part of the team’s defensive strategy.
Yerson Mosquera
Yerson Mosquera is back from his loan spell in Spain with Villarreal. Despite initial doubts about his return, he is now set to be integrated into Wolves’ first-team squad. This season is pivotal for him as he aims to establish himself and prove his worth on the Premier League stage.
Nelson Semedo
Nelson Semedo’s contract situation adds a layer of complexity to Wolves’ defensive plans. Entering the final year of his contract, Semedo faces three potential outcomes: extending his stay with a pay cut, being sold, or leaving as a free agent next summer. His decision will be crucial for the team’s defensive outlook.
Matt Doherty
Matt Doherty hasn’t quite hit the heights of his first spell at Wolves since returning, but he remains a versatile squad member. His value lies in his ability to cover multiple positions and provide depth, ensuring he stays part of the team despite not always being a first-choice starter.
Rayan Ait-Nouri
Wolves know Ait-Nouri’s standout 2023-24 season has caught the eye of other clubs, but they want to keep the 23-year-old. They have the option to extend his contract to 2027, so there’s no rush to sell. Only a big offer might change their minds.
Hugo Bueno
Found his progress held back by a lack of minutes last season and the 21-year-old is liked by clubs in Germany and his native Spain. The Wolves academy graduate will represent pure profit on the accounting books if he goes and the club would sell for the right price.
Other Defenders
- Dexter Lembikisa: Still young and under contract until 2026, he’s expected to be given more chances to prove himself.
- Ki-Jana Hoever: Likely to be sold if a decent offer comes in, despite a solid loan spell at Stoke City.
- Nigel Lonwijk & Justin Hubner: Both are highly rated but not ready for first-team action. They’re expected to go out on loan again, with discussions about new deals ongoing.
Transfer Needs
Wolves’ defensive needs will largely depend on potential departures. If key players like Kilman or Semedo leave, reinforcements will be necessary. The club is prepared with target lists for centre-back and wing-back positions but will buy mainly to replace any leavers. Wolves must keep an eye on the transfer market and be ready to act swiftly to maintain a robust defensive unit for the upcoming season.