Wolves are poised to have a busy summer at Molineux, with Gary O’Neil eyeing much-needed reinforcements to replenish his squad however, the Old Gold should also brace for departures.
This summer will be crucial for Fosun to show their support for Gary O’Neil, who has done a tremendous job at weathering the storm of Wolves’ lack of squad depth this season.
The Englishman took over Julen Loeptegui’s depleted side after the club were unable to financially support the Spaniard last year, with it now integral that a different approach is ensured ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
While a lot of focus will be on who Wolves can sign to bolster the wilted squad that O’Neil has managed to utilise to great effect, Molineux will also expect to see some departures, with key names linked with a move away.
One player who has been at the heart of recent speculation is Rayan Ait-Nouri, who after becoming an outcast in Lopetegui’s squad last term, has thrived under the new manager’s guidance throughout the 2023/24 calendar.
Transfer expert expects Rayan Ait-Nouri to depart Wolves this summer
Unfortunately, with high performance comes attention and with attention comes admiration, with three Premier League clubs said to be eyeing Ait-Nouri’s signature ahead of the summer transfer window.
Speaking exclusively to Molineux News, HITC journalist Graeme Bailey shared an insight into Wolves’ stance on the Algerian’s future at Molineux beyond this season.
“Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City are looking at him. I think from my understanding, Wolves are gearing up as if he might be sold.
“He’s a fantastic player, he’s really matured and they like him a lot. He’s a 22-year-old, perfect age and I think we’ll see him move on this summer.”
READ MORE: Who is Rayan Ait-Nouri?
Bailey also mentioned that the versatile left-back may not be the only first-team sensation to exit this summer, with Pedro Neto’s future also a heavily speculated topic.
“I think we’ll see two big departures from Wolves, I think Neto and Ait-Nouri are most likely, I think Cunha’s more likely to stay. I think we’ll see those two go.
“I think Wolves are doing work on finding a left-back and Ait-Nouri will get that move. I think they’ll make a very very healthy profit on him.”
Wolves would be devastated to see Rayan Ait-Nouri move on this summer
The difficulty in losing Ait-Nouri compared to any other player is the completely unique skillset he offers O’Neil’s side.
It would be a significant challenge to attempt to replace the 22-year-old, who has played in defensive and advanced positions this season with little fuss.
While it would be a great shame to see the £10k-a-week star exit, Bailey makes a strong point for the profit the Algerian could hand Wolves, who purchased him for just £9.5m from Angers back in 2021.
Any fee over his purchased price would be a reward for the Old Gold, who could ask for a particularly high fee to let him go, considering the current state of the Premier League market and the financial status of the club’s said to be eyeing him.
Only time will truly tell if Wolves are to cash in on the 22-year-old’s talents this summer, in what will be an interesting narrative to follow.