Opinion

Wolves must pounce now as Bournemouth player has just told Andoni Iraola he wants out

It’s fair to say Wolves are crying out for another attacker, and now one forward who managed double-digit goal involvements last season reportedly wants to explore his options.

Bournemouth’s 2024/25 campaign was phenomenal. Despite finishing in 9th, the Cherries were scrapping at the top end of the table for most of the season.

Even with what felt like half the squad out injured at any given time, Iraola’s tactical brilliance and breakout seasons from a couple of attackers made Bournemouth a frightening prospect.

FBL-ENG-PR-BOURNEMOUTH-NOTTINGHAM FOREST
Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images

It’s exactly the type of season Wolves fans have been desperate for in recent years, and they may be able to nab one of the key ingredients to last season’s success.

Bournemouth forward Dango Ouattara wants to explore his options

Bournemouth brought in Evanilson last summer to be their main man up top, and when he played, he was fantastic. But injuries kept the Brazilian sidelined for much of the season and the relatively unknown Dango Ouattara stepped into the role.

A winger by trade, Dango adapted to the false nine role he was given, forming a lethal partnership with Patrick Kluivert and bagging seven goals and four assists in the league.

It was a breakout season for the 23-year-old, who now reportedly seeks a new challenge.

The news is quite surprising, with Dango really just now finding his feet at Bournemouth, but perhaps concerns about minutes are brewing, with Bournemouth’s attack back to full strength.

Vitor Pereira needs a player like Dango Ouattara

It’s clear more attackers are needed at Wolves. Goncalo Guedes was just sold, obviously Matheus Cunha is gone too, and Fabio Silva looks destined for an exit.

Add to this the murmurings from Newcastle regarding Jorgen Strand Larsen, and it’s hard not to worry about the current squad situation. Fer Lopez and Jhon Arias are great additions, but neither is proven in the Premier League.

Dango is still quite young, fits the profile wanted by Pereira, and importantly, gives Wolves something different up top.

Jean-Ricner Bellegarde of Wolverhampton Wanderers battles for possession with Dango Ouattara of AFC Bournemouth during the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC
Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images

Brentford are interested, and now that his desire to leave is public knowledge, more clubs will begin to circle. Bournemouth paid £20 million for Dango 18 months ago.

It would be nice to see Wolves show interest, to reassure fans that they are working on improving the squad ahead of Pereira’s first full season in charge.