Nacho Fernandez will reportedly now extend his contract with Real Madrid and become club captain, in a potential transfer blow for Wolves.
Marca have reported the Spanish defender will now sign a new deal at the Bernabeu.
Nacho had been linked with an exit from the club throughout the season, with his current deal expiring this summer.
It had been suggested that he was not entirely happy with how much he was playing.
But it was always stated that Carlo Ancelotti still saw him as a key player for his squad.
Nacho will apparently now sign an extension with Real, and also become the new club captain. Karim Benzema is confirmed to be leaving the club, and so the veteran will assume the armband.
Perhaps Benzema’s departure, meaning Nacho would take the armband, is a big factor in him deciding to stay.
The development comes after Nacho was linked with Wolves throughout the second half of the 2022/23 season.
Julen Lopetegui had apparently been keen to sign the star for next season.
Lopetegui, of course, managed Spain and then Real Madrid briefly, and knows full well the qualities Nacho brings to the table.
Just last week, it was reported that Wolves were keen on Nacho and were poised to offer him a two-year deal.
But the club will now have to seek alternative centre-halves.
Nacho Fernandez news is a shame – he’d have been a great addition for Wolves
Maybe this shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise.
Nacho absolutely loves Real Madrid and has been fiercely loyal to them over the years. He’s had opportunities to leave, but has stayed put, despite never really being a regular starter.
Perhaps the chance to assume to captaincy was just too special a thing to pass up.
Wolves will now need to look elsewhere for a new centre-back.
That said, maybe Lopetegui will consider reintegrating Conor Coady, who is to return to Wolves after Everton decided not to buy him.
The defender has revealed he is now in talks with the club about what happens next.