Wolverhampton Wanderers need a new central defender this summer.
In the first two seasons back in the Premier League, Nuno Espirito Santo’s side were generally quite good at the back.
In 2018/19, 46 goals were conceded by the Wanderers and the following season they shipped 40.
This term though, Wolves have already conceded 41, and there are still six games left to play.
That suggests a new face is needed to shore things up – and the club should look no further than Edmond Tapsoba, who continues to shine in Germany.
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The 22-year-old – linked with Wolves last month (Express) – is very much the modern-day centre-half: he is a solid defender, strong in the air and can execute those line-breaking passes.
His team, Bayer Leverkusen, have conceded 34 goals in their 30 games, and Tapsoba’s solidity has been key in helping them push for a European finish.
The man has all the tools to become a top player one day, and Wolves ought to make him a priority this summer.
He’d shine alongside Boly
Potentially, he could be absolutely brilliant at Wolves playing alongside Willy Boly.
Whether that be in a back four or a three-man defence (he has experience of playing both of those systems), Tapsoba and Boly would be a fearsome duo.
It’s widely accepted Boly is the best defender at Molineux and that he’s the one who needs to lead the backline – rather than Conor Coady or Romain Saiss – if there is to be a transition to a back four.
Coady and Saiss unfortunately have not convinced in the system, and therefore there should be no second thoughts about moving for Tapsoba, presuming he is within budget.
Supposedly he has a £44 million release clause but in these financially tricky times, perhaps Leverkusen would sell for less, especially if they miss out on Europe.