One former Wolves target could be available for free this summer amid a contract dispute with his current club.
Gary O’Neil will be eager to address Wolves’ lack of depth this summer, with the Old Gold hoping to have a busy period in the transfer window.
After coasting the Midlands club to a 14th-place finish, the manager will count on Jeff Shi to fulfil his transfer wish and deliver the squad a new number nine.
Some names have already been mentioned as forwards that Wolves could chase, with one former target’s current situation posing an interesting scenario for O’Neil.
Former Wolves target Boulaye Dia could be available for free this summer
On deadline day last summer, Wolves attempted to strike a deal for Salernitana striker Boulaye Dia, an offer that was rejected by the Italian club.
A lot has developed since, as the 27-year-old has all but been exiled from his club due to refusing to come on as a substitute back in March, seeing Salernitana axe him from the squad.
With Dia now certain to leave this summer, a report from Salernitana News has detailed an interesting prospect for Wolves, with the player now making his plans clear.
Despite receiving an offer from Lazio, it’s understood that the Senegal international desires a move to the Premier League, and hopes for his contract to be terminated.
As a result, Wolves could land the Serie A talisman for free, with the Old Gold mentioned in the report as Salernitana’s ‘original sin’ to Dia was not accepting Wolves’ proposal in 2023.
Wolves must monitor Dia’s situation this summer
Journalist Josh Bunting lauded Dia as ‘incredible’ for his form over the 2022/23 campaign for Salernitana, praise that was warranted for his hot form in front of goal.
That season, the former Wolves target had a hand in 22 Serie A goals, scoring 16 and assisting six, via Transfermarkt, to see him catch the eye of O’Neil in the Premier League soon after his arrival at Molineux.
Considering that the Wolves boss has made it clear that he desires a striker this summer, the Old Gold must look to target Dia if his situation remains the same.
Having performed in Ligue 1, La Liga and Serie A, it would be interesting to now see how the Senegalese star ranks in the Premier League, particularly at a club desperate for a number nine.
The prospect of a free transfer for the player should widen O’Neil’s eyes, who could land a seasoned goalscorer at zero cost amid Wolves’ task of rebuilding the squad ahead of 2024/25.