Wolves are facing late competition for Michail Antonio in the form of Everton.
The Sunday Mirror (29/01, page 78) reported yesterday that the Toffees are now looking to try and sign the West Ham United striker before Tuesday’s deadline.
Antonio spoke about his future last week, and suggested he could be on the move.
The 32-year-old wants to be playing regular football, and confirmed he has been in talks with Hammers officials about leaving. He’s been at the club since 2015 after joining from Nottingham Forest for £7 million.
Wolves recently enquired about taking Antonio on loan.
The club have already managed to poach Craig Dawson from the club, paying £3.3 million to bring a deal to fruition.
It has been suggested that Julen Lopetegui is a fan of Antonio and that the Spaniard could request a late pursuit of the player.
Matheus Cunha has already come in. But the Brazilian is not really an out-and-out striker.
But if Wolves are looking to make a late play for Antonio, then it won’t be straightforward.
Because Everton are reportedly now looking to sign the Jamaica international. The Sunday Mirror have actually said there’s three clubs plotting bids for Antonio. Wolves are mentioned as having been interested.
Everton are set to announce the appointment of Sean Dyche as their new manager after Frank Lampard was sacked.
West Ham may not do business with Wolves over Michail Antonio after Craig Dawson deal
West Ham have already lost Dawson to Wolves. So it may be that they don’t want to further strengthen a relegation rival.
For this reason, it might also be difficult for Everton to sign Antonio.
But the player is open to leaving, and if he pushes then something could happen.
Given Antonio wants to be playing regular football, a move to Wolves feels a bit unlikely.
Julen Lopetegui still has faith in Raul Jimenez to be an important player for Wolves. He also has Diego Costa and Cunha in reserve.
While he could be open to bringing in another striker, Antonio’s strong desire for game time may not make him the right addition.