Wolverhampton Wanderers returned to the Premier League in 2018 and have been one of the division’s strongest sides since returning from the EFL Championship.
Wolves have recruited well since the arrival of manager Nuno Espirito Santo. However, the club’s excellent recruitment over the last few seasons could see them lose multiple star players in the upcoming offseason.
Could Jimenez, Traore, Jota, or Neves leave?
The two most important players that Santo could lose in the offseason are forwards Raul Jimenez and Adama Traore. Jimenez has been a phenomenon since arriving at Molineux and attracted attention from clubs all over Europe including Manchester United. Jimenez has bagged 11 league goals in 26 appearances. He has scored a further nine goals in the Europa League.
A hat-trick in back-to-back @EuropaLeague games for Diogo Jota! pic.twitter.com/hKG4GUPmm7
— Wolves Live (@WolvesFC_latest) February 20, 2020
Traore has broken out as a star player with Wolverhampton Wanderers. He has tallied seven assists and four goals in the league this term. Traore has also shown himself able to hold up the ball to bring teammates into the attack or capable of blowing past full-backs on the flank before crossing the ball.
Traore’s form has drawn interest from both Real Madrid and Barcelona, which the winger is open to a move to either club. The mountain of muscle has stated he is open to a move, therefore, it is likely that a transfer away from Molineux will be on the cards. Like Jimenez, Traore’s contract runs until 2023. The good news is Wolves could cash in on both players allowing them to recruit new stars.
Santo may not only lose Jimenez and/or Traore. Diogo Jota and Ruben Neves could both leave the club as well and their departures could be even worse for Wolves.
Neves’ 25-yard wonder strike against Espanyol in the Europa League last 32 was just another brilliant goal from the talismanic midfielder. The first leg of the last 32 match against Espanyol also saw Jota tally a hat-trick. Manchester United are linked with a transfer for Jota, although they are linked by the media to most players that play well in the Premier League as it is an easy link to make. Still, the duo will be sought after by other clubs in the off season.
Joao Moutinho to stay until 2022
Wolverhampton Wanderers were set to lose midfield general Joao Moutinho in the offseason with his contract expiring but re-signed him in November. Moutinho was one of the signings of the 2018 summer transfer window and his play has been a big part of Wolves’ success. The midfielder is now tied to Molineux until 2022.
Ruben Neves and Joao Moutinho running our midfield is easily the best thing about this Wolves team right now
— Ali (@aliward_96) February 21, 2020
Santo has four players with their contracts set to expire in the summer. John Ruddy, Max Kliman, Bright Enobakhare, and Phi Ofosu-Ayeh will have their deals end during the offseason. Meanwhile, Enzo Liodice’s loan deal could be turned into a permanent signing.
Wolverhampton Wanderers’ recruitment has been excellent over the last few years. The big challenge will be whether or not Wolves can replace those hidden gems they signed if they go.