Wolves could be set to miss out on one summer transfer target as the player’s future looks to be elsewhere.
Gary O’Neil will hope to strengthen his squad this summer after coasting Wolves to a 14th-place finish last season.
All eyes will be on the upcoming transfer window as the Old Gold desperately need to see reinforcements arrive to add to the depth at Molineux.
Wolves are in the market for a new striker this summer however, one long-term target could soon be off limits.
Wolves transfer target Che Adams could now stay at Southampton
Wolves have been long-term admirers of Southampton striker Che Adams, whom the Old Gold failed to strike a deal for last summer.
Wolves attempted to sign the Scotsman on deadline day in 2023 however, O’Neil’s attempt was blocked by the Saints.
In the build-up to the upcoming transfer window, there was a confidence that the Midlands club would get the deal done this summer although, things have taken a turn.
This week, Southampton shared their retained list ahead of 2024/25, detailing that there are ‘talks ongoing’ between the club and Adams.
The 27-year-old’s contract at St Mary’s is set to expire at the end of the month, with the Saints now hoping to offer the striker a new deal as opposed to letting him leave.
It’s tough news for Wolves who could have captured the forward as a free agent this summer, with O’Neil now likely to have to look elsewhere for a striker.
Missing out on Adams is a blow for Wolves
Speaking about Wolves’ transfer plans this summer, chairman Jeff Shi hinted that the squad will be replenished with a striker before next season.
Shi’s words indicate that O’Neil will find a new number nine in preparation for next term however, it now looks unlikely to be Adams.
Having contributed to 23 goals over the 2023/24 campaign for Southampton, via Transfermarkt, the Scotsman could have been a cost-effective forward to bolster Wolves’ depth in attack.
Added to that, Adams has Premier League experience, making him the ideal target for the Old Gold to poach this summer.
Ally McCoist once lauded Adams’ playing style as ‘terrific’, with his finishing ability on show this week as he scored a sensational goal for Scotland, hinting at what he could have offered O’Neil.
Whether the striker and Southampton are able to agree on a new contract will be a waiting game with the Saints’ plans to extend being a blow for Wolves.