Steve Bull has urged Wolves to keep hold of Ladislav Krejci this summer, despite the likelihood of the club’s relegation.
Ladislav Krejci will be an interesting case this summer, with his permanent switch to Wolves reportedly already sealed (via E&S). That clarity removes any doubt about his future on paper but increases the responsibility to keep him as part of the squad.
His performances have matched that importance, underlined by his relative consistency across the campaign.
Wolves need players who can carry responsibility through change, and Krejci has shown that level already. He has also marked himself out to be a potential next captain at Molineux.
For Steve Bull, it is paramount that Wanderers don’t lose him immediately after signing him, as he could genuinely be key in helping the club to come straight back up to the Premier League.
Steve Bull makes the case for Wolves to keep Ladislav Krejci
Steve Bull has already laid out exactly what Wolves should do next.
He of the Czechia international (via E&S): “It does frustrate me to some degree, as good performances for his country could mean he leaves Wolves and I really want him to stay next season. He’s very talented.
“If Wolves do drop to the Championship, he could be key to us bouncing back, but I fully expect there to be interest in him from other clubs.
“We have to focus on the last seven Premier League games first, see where we are and then assess it, but it will be a really difficult summer to hold on to some players.
“Krejci has also just been named captain of his country and if he does stay with Wolves next season, he could take the armband for us too.
“He’s a leader on the pitch, he works hard and reads the game well.
“But I do think it will be tough for Wolves to keep him for next season. He’s a Premier League-level player who may not want to play in the Championship.”
Bull’s concern is grounded in reality. Ultimately, Krejci has clearly shown himself to be good enough for the Premier League, but Wolves are not going to be able to offer that next season, putting the player in a difficult spot.
Krejci could lead Wolves out of the Championship
Krejci – who will cost Wolves £26 million in total (£6 million loan fee plus £20 million permanent fee, BBC Sport) – has arguably been the best signing Wolves made last summer.
He’s made 28 appearances for the club in total, and chipped in with two goals and an assist.
Very often, he’s delivered very committed performances in an old gold shirt and has not deserved to be on the losing side as many times as he has.
He is also, of course, very versatile having played in both the defence and midfield.
Wolves have a player on their hands who combines performance and leadership at a time when both are needed. To lose that next season would be a blow.
Krejci is pretty much already secured on a permanent deal, but it really will now be fascinating to see if Wolves can keep hold of him.
He’d be forgiven for perhaps wanting a loan move, but hopefully he’ll want to stay and help get this club back to where it belongs.
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