Wolves’ interest in Manu Silva will surely leave ‘special’ Molineux star fearing the worst

The transfer window has been open almost three weeks and Wolves still have to do some vital business to complete their squad.

Wolves have already signed Emmanuel Agbadou, the imposing centre-back who has played in the win over Bristol City and the defeat to Newcastle United.

But aside from adding another defender to the ranks, Vitor Pereira wants to sign a midfielder amid speculation linking Mario Lemina with a move out of Molineux.

Lemina, who refused to play against Newcastle, has interest from Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab and Turkish giants Galatasaray.

The 31-year-old is likely to leave after burning bridges with the fans, and Wolves have reportedly submitted a £10m bid for Manu Silva, the Vitoria Guimaraes midfielder who could be his replacement.

However, if Lemina stays and Silva also arrives, it could damage the starting prospects of one other midfield talent.

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Manu Silva transfer interest could be bad news for Wolves star Tommy Doyle

Tommy Doyle has found starting chances at Wolves hard to come by. With the emergence of summer signing Andre alongside Joao Gomes, the duo have formed a solid partnership.

Pereira has been disappointed with Doyle, who has failed to stamp his authority on the starting lineup in the 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest as he was bullied physically.

Wolves fans rate the 23-year-old highly and perhaps feel he should be playing more however, another midfielder being captured would scupper his chances.

Doyle, who was described as ‘special’ by Pep Guardiola, could quickly find himself battling against Gomes, Andre, Lemina, Boubacar Traore and another new addition for a place in the side.

In terms of being a combative presence, the Englishman falls short, only posting 0.3 interceptions and 0.6 tackles per game.

With Pereira deploying a two-man midfield, those numbers need to be much higher and interest in Silva – a combative defensive midfielder – suggests he’s looking for more physicality in the engine room.

Doyle is wanted by Sheffield United

Interestingly, news of Wolves lodging a bid for Silva came after claims Sheffield United wanted to sign Doyle.

The Manchester City academy graduate spent the 2022/23 campaign on loan at Bramall Lane and became a fan favourite however, a permanent move to the Championship is unlikely.

Knowing that game time is at a premium for the deep-lying playmaker and further interest could emerge, perhaps Pereira could sanction a loan move for the player.

Although at this current stage, with Lemina halfway out the door and no new midfielder signed, he looks set to remain at Wolves.

But significant developments in the move for Silva could see that change as the transfer pendulum continues to swing.