Opinion

Why Gary O’Neil may now have to sell ‘seriously good’ Wolves star amid recent transfer update

Amid several incomings, Wolves could now be tempted to part ways with one squad favourite to actually bolster Gary O’Neil’s side.

Not many Wolves fans would have anticipated that the Old Gold would make such a strong start to the summer transfer window. 

The lows of the summer of 2023 left a sour taste in the mouths of Gary O’Neil’s squad, who ran on limited depth throughout the 2023/24 campaign. 

While a mass exodus was the narrative of last summer, this year has started in contrasting fashion, with four new faces already set to bolster the manager’s squad next term.

That being said, it’s not all rosy at Molineux, as the latest update on the transfer front suggests that O’Neil may have to resort to an unwanted solution to continue to add depth to his side. 

Wolverhampton Wanderers v West Ham United - Premier League
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Wolves might consider selling players as remaining transfer budget is hinted

While fans are focused on the pending arrivals of Jorgen Strand Larsen and Pedro Lima, a concerning detail has emerged about Wolves’ remaining budget.

A report via The Athletic hinted that Strand Larsen’s £25m arrival is expected to be Wolves’ most expensive signing of the summer. 

As a result, it would be assumed that O’Neil’s budget for further signings is wearing thin even though there is plenty of work left to be done this summer.

Just like last summer, Wolves could find themselves in a position where a sale may be required in order to continue to sufficiently replenish the squad.

Max Kilman sale surely now makes more sense

One player who has generated interest this summer is club captain Max Kilman, who is said to be wanted by former Wolves boss Julen Lopetegui at West Ham. 

While the Old Gold hope to keep the centre-back, who played every minute in the Premier League for O’Neil’s side last term, every player has a price and given Wolves’ circumstances, cashing in may be smart.

Lauded as ‘seriously good’ by journalist Adam Bate, Kilman’s future sale would hand Wolves a significant profit, having purchased the defender for just £40,000.

The Midlands club are holding out for a £45m asking price for the 27-year-old, a fee that if obtained, could hand O’Neil the resources to further extend his squad at Molineux.

Following the news of Wolves’ remaining budget, a sale could prove to be crucial, with interest in Kilman having the potential to hand the club much-needed profit to continue to explore the market.