Journalist Nathan Judah has backed one rarely-seen Wolves player to make a breakthrough next season if he doesn’t leave.
The summer transfer window started tremendously for Gary O’Neil, as the manager welcomed four new signings to his Wolves squad.
Tommy Doyle made his loan from Manchester City permanent before being joined by Rodrigo Gomes, Pedro Lima and Jorgen Strand Larsen.
While the boss will be delighted to have bolstered his squad ahead of the upcoming 2024/25 campaign, there is still some concern that O’Neil will see some players depart.
Wolves goalkeeper Dan Bentley backed to become a starter amid transfer interest from Arsenal
Club captain Max Kilman’s departure to West Ham was one unexpected deal this summer however, the defender’s exit could be topped before deadline day.
A shock transfer could come in the form of Arsenal’s interest in Dan Bentley, whom the Gunners have already made two bids for.
The second-choice shot-stopper is wanted at the Emirates however, Mikel Arteta’s side are yet to meet Wolves’ £1m asking price.
While Bentley looks likely to be sold, journalist Nathan Judah explained how the 31-year-old could shock many if he stays at Wolves.
When speaking on The Keen and Judah Show, the Express and Star reporter praised the Arsenal target’s performances in pre-season, adding that the 2023 arrival could even challenge Jose Sa if he remained at Molineux.
“Dan Bentley would definitely be pushing to start the season in goal if Wolves were not to sign anyone.”
Judah was alluding to the instance that Sa could leave Wolves this summer, expressing his delight to see Bentley performing well despite distractions caused by the links to Arsenal.
Bentley’s quality is shadowed by Jose Sa’s claim to number one
Bentley has had his chance to show his quality at Wolves following his arrival from Bristol City however, the 2023/24 campaign did not go as hoped for the Englishman.
A concerning performance against Ipswich Town in the Carabao Cup left many worried at the gap between himself and Sa, a gap that O’Neil believes Bentley has closed.
In the same discussion on the goalkeeper’s approach to training in Marbella, fellow Express and Star reporter Liam Keen agreed with Judah’s claim, admitting that he believes the Arsenal target’s quality is sometimes overlooked.
“Maybe he’s slightly disrespected at times by the general opinion but I think he’s done really well [in pre-season].”
Wolves captured Bentley in 2023 for a reason, as he has shone in the Championship throughout his career, with his path now potentially leading to North London.
It would be a great shame for the Old Gold to lose a ‘keeper of his calibre, particularly if Sa does leave, with the belief there that he could go as far as challenging for a starting spot in O’Neil’s side.