Wolves’ Dream Finish to the Transfer Window: Four Moves That Could Complete a Promotion-Chasing Squad
Wolves have wasted no time strengthening their squad this summer, but the club’s business is far from finished as the transfer window heads into its final weeks.
New head coach Cesar Peixoto has already welcomed experienced duo Kieran Trippier and Raul Jimenez on free transfers, while the arrival of Rafiki Said from Standard Liege has injected pace and creativity into the attack.
On the departure front, Joao Gomes has completed a high-value switch to Aston Villa. Although Wolves were hoping to trim their squad more quickly, Gomes’ sale has provided the club with greater financial flexibility should the right opportunities arise.
With the Championship season fast approaching and Blackburn awaiting on August 14, Wolves could still have a busy end to the month. Here are four moves that would make for an ideal finish to the transfer window.
Jordan James arrives
Replacing Joao Gomes is one of Peixoto’s biggest priorities, and Jordan James appears to be an excellent candidate.
The Wales international enjoyed an outstanding Championship campaign with Leicester City, scoring 11 goals in 34 appearances before injury disrupted his season. Many believe his absence played a major role in Leicester’s eventual relegation.
James offers energy, physicality, and a genuine goal threat from midfield. His ability to carry the ball forward would complement Andre perfectly in Peixoto’s preferred 4-2-3-1 system.
As a homegrown player with significant Championship experience, James would strengthen an area where Wolves need reinforcements. While Premier League clubs may also be interested, regular first-team football at Molineux could make Wolves an attractive destination.
Andre Luiz joins the attack
Despite signing Rafiki Said, Peixoto is still eager to recruit another winger capable of stretching defenses with pace and direct running.
One player linked with the club is Andre Luiz, currently with Olympiacos. The Brazilian has struggled to establish himself since arriving in Greece from Rio Ave earlier this year, but his quality is unquestionable.
Before making that move, Luiz enjoyed a superb spell in Portugal, producing seven goals and five assists in just 19 league matches.
Interestingly, one of those goals came against a Gil Vicente side managed by Peixoto, meaning the Wolves boss already knows exactly what the 24-year-old can offer. A move to Molineux could provide the fresh start needed to rediscover his best form.
Sam Johnstone departs
A summer exit for Sam Johnstone would likely benefit both the goalkeeper and the club.
The former England international has spent most of his Wolves career as Jose Sa’s understudy and struggled to make a convincing case whenever he was given opportunities. Limited involvement last season also led many supporters to question whether he still had a future at the club.
At 33, Johnstone may now have to accept a backup role elsewhere rather than remain on the bench in the Championship.
For Wolves, removing his wages from the payroll would create room for further additions, especially if Jose Sa leaves before the window closes and the club enters the market for a new first-choice goalkeeper.
Tolu Arokodare moves on
Another player who could leave before the deadline is Tolu Arokodare.
The striker endured a difficult first season in English football, and the arrival of Raul Jimenez has pushed him further down the pecking order. His omission from Peixoto’s initial pre-season squad for the Portugal training camp has only increased speculation surrounding his future.
Serie A side Genoa are among the clubs reportedly interested, with Fiorentina and Trabzonspor also monitoring the situation.
Although Wolves are unlikely to recover anywhere near the reported £20 million invested in Arokodare, finding him a new club would free up valuable squad space while reducing the wage bill ahead of what they hope will be a successful promotion campaign.
