The pieces of Wolves transfer business are starting to fall into place, and now, the door could be open for Vitor Pereira to finally sign a Rayan Ait-Nouri replacement.
Ait-Nouri sealed his transfer to Manchester City in June as one of multiple high-profile exits from Wolves this summer.
The 24-year-old earned his chance to work under Pep Guardiola, one of the best tacticians on the planet, as well as start alongside several world-class players.
Regarded as one of the best wing-backs in the Premier League, Wolves still need to replace Ait-Nouri’s 12 goal involvements from last term.
An attacking and exciting left wing-back to rival Hugo Bueno is on the agenda, and Pereira could have found his ideal man.
Atletico Madrid open the door for Wolves to sign Samuel Lino
In an attempt to fill the Algerian’s void, Wolves have shortlisted several options for their left side. In June, for example, Wolves were considering a move for Barcelona’s Gerard Martin.
Links to Bueno’s teammate for Spain under-21s have since cooled, with Wolves showing an interest in Young Boys left-back Jaouen Hadjam and Atletico Madrid speedster Samuel Lino.
Wolves enquired about Lino last week, joining Nuno Espirito Santo’s Nottingham Forest in the race for his signature.
Atleti value the Brazilian at between £17-22 million, an affordable price for a club that desperately needs some dynamism down the left flank.
Although a winger by trade, Lino does have experience of operating as a wing-back, and with the Spanish giants in the market for a left-sided defender, the door is ajar for Wolves to pounce.
That is because Fabrizio Romano reported on Tuesday that Chelsea left-back Renato Veiga has said ‘yes’ to joining Atletico Madrid for around £34 million, and he’s someone who would arguably start over Lino next season.
The 25-year-old started 21 times under Diego Simeone last term, but since he’s being offered to multiple clubs, Atleti are seemingly replacing him, which explains why Wolves should sign him.
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Lino can replace Rayan Ait-Nouri
Lino is an ‘explosive’ talent and someone who possesses silky feet, speed and attacking threat down the left side.
With Wolves losing lots of dynamism and aggressive play following Ait-Nouri’s departure, someone like Lino would be a much-welcome addition.
As highlighted by FBref, the Brazilian has recorded a non-penalty xG per 90 of 0.33 in the past year and 0.32 for assists, which showcases his threat.
For comparison, Ait-Nouri amassed an xG of just 0.08 per 90 and 0.20 for assists, suggesting that Lino could offer a similar or even greater output to his predecessor.
That is why Wolves must go all out to land the versatile wing-back, who could be surplus to requirements in Spain.