Wolves have had their fair share of ups and downs when it comes to their defensive line. Recent performances have highlighted some holes that need urgent attention following departure of Wolves captain Max Kilman. As the transfer window approaches, the club’s focus will undoubtedly be on bringing in solid defenders who can plug these gaps. In this post, we’ll explore potential signings who could bolster Wolves’ defence. You’ll find all the latest transfer rumours and insights right here.
Maxime Estève
Wolves have been linked with a move for Burnley centre back Maxim Estève.
Fabrizio Romano says to keep an eye on Esteve, as several Premier League clubs are looking at the Burnley defender to strengthen their squads. Esteve played regularly for Burnley in the 2023/24 season with 16 appearances after his January arrival, although he couldn’t stop their relegation to the Championship. His performances showed promise, which explains why many clubs are interested. Plus Burnley may need to sell players to raise funds after their drop to the Championship.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Wolves are keen on signing Maxime Estève, the 22-year-old former Montpellier defender. The Premier League club has enquired about the conditions required to secure the transfer.
Isaak Touré
Lorient are willing to sell the 21-year-old this summer after their relegation from Ligue 1. The £25m-rated centre-back is available for a reduced fee of £15m. Both Wolves and Fulham are reported to hold an interest.
Since moving from Marseille, Touré has made 24 appearances and scored one goal for Lorient. However, he couldn’t prevent their relegation as they finished 17th. Isaak Touré stands out with his unique profile. At an impressive 6’9″, he shows unexpected agility for his height. While his aerial game isn’t as strong as you might think, his skills on the ground make him an appealing choice. Touré could be a smart investment for the future. Despite Lorient’s struggles, Touré was a rare bright spot with his physical presence and ability to read the game. Wolves have a chance to secure a promising talent.
David Carmo
Wolverhampton Wanderers, after losing captain Maximilian Kilman to West Ham United, are looking at several options this summer. David Carmo of Porto, 25, is a serious candidate,
The Angola international, now back at Porto after a six-month loan at Olympiacos, is eager to settle in with his Primera Liga team. Standing at 6ft 5in, Carmo, once compared to Virgil van Dijk, made 35 appearances for both Porto and Olympiacos in the 2023/24 season. Whether he’ll be a key player for Ruben Amorim this summer is still unclear, which could open up a move to Wolves.
The main challenge, sources say, is persuading Carmo. While the Premier League appeals to any footballer, Wolves believe their primary task is to show that the project at Molineux is worthwhile. Carmo could be acquired for as little as £17 million. Negotiating a good deal with Porto is also a factor.
Kevin Danso
Kevin Danso from RC Lens has been generating interest. Standing at 6’3″, Danso offers both strength and flexibility. He’s gained experience in different leagues and has shown significant improvement since his time at Southampton. For around €15-20 million, Danso would be a smart investment, offering both talent and potential resale value.
Danso has been one of Ligue 1’s top defenders over the past three seasons, playing as a central defender in Franck Haise’s back-three system. Despite a slow start last season, Lens finished seventh, with Danso key to their revival. Only four teams conceded fewer goals than Lens in Ligue 1. The Austrian helped keep 12 clean sheets in 30 league matches. He won 67% of his aerial duels and 63% of his ground duels while maintaining an 88% passing accuracy. The former Southampton player averages 4.19 progressive passes and 0.88 progressive carries per game.
Danso would be a valuable addition, and Wolves are keen, but they face competition. Napoli have been pursuing him since last summer, having had two bids rejected as they looked to replace Kim Min-jae. However, Atalanta are currently leading the race to sign Danso. West Ham also want to strengthen their defence after conceding 74 goals last season and have set their sights on him.
Lens await the club that will meet their asking price. They’ve already signed replacements, with Chelsea’s Malang Sarr joining on a free transfer, and Herve Koffi added to the squad. Foot Mercato reports that Lens demand €25 million for the 25-year-old.
Nico Elvedi
Recently, German outlet Wetterauer Zeitung reported that Wolves remain keen on signing Nico Elvedi after a failed bid last summer. Wolves might now move for the Swiss defender, who has an £8.5m release clause.
Elvedi of Borussia Monchengladbach hinted he might leave after nine years. His playing style could make him an ideal replacement for Kilman at Molineux. Elvedi, 27, is a versatile defender with athleticism suited for the Premier League. He has 303 appearances and 25 goal contributions for Gladbach. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches, he’s ready for a new challenge and could fit well in O’Neil’s Wolves.
Elvedi is more than just skilled with the ball. According to Sofascore, the £57k-per-week star had an 89% pass completion rate in the Bundesliga last year, with averages of 4.6 ball recoveries and 4.8 clearances per game. He also won 70% of his ground duels. These stats show Elvedi’s dynamic and solid defensive skills. He’s a consistent Bundesliga performer known for his defensive actions and interceptions. For around €10 million, he offers reliable depth and could be a valuable addition to Wolves.
ANY MORE EXITS?
RC Lens has shown interest in a move for Wolves midfielder Boubacar Traore. Borussia Monchengladbach have also been monitoring the midfielder.
Arsenal came in with a bid for £50k for Wolves goalkeeper Dan Bentley which was instantly rejected and reports suggest a new offer of £300k was tabled, but this is well below Wolves valuation of £1m. It remains to be seen whether a deal will be done on this one or if Arsenal will move on to new targets.
Pedro Neto has been touted to move this season but there has been only murmurings of interested parties. Things are tight for all clubs in the Premier League this season and unless a club is willing to stump up the cash he’ll stay at Wolves. We spent every summer waiting for someone to swoop in for Ruben Neves and we kept him longer than expected so you never know maybe Neto will be a Wolf for the forthcoming season.