The first bit of Wolves business under Rob Edwards is close to completion, and it’s a player who may finally fill the void left by Matheus Cunha.
International action is out of the way, and Wolves fans will be solely focused on assessing their new manager as he begins to implement his ideas.
Fosun and Rob Edwards have plenty to address in January, and they appear to be taking the first step.
A player who was linked to Wolves while Vitor Pereira was still at the helm is now on course for a Molineux move, and he could be the answer to Cunha leaving.
Wolves close in on Patrik Mercado for Rob Edwards’ first signing
Wolves have been crying out for a midfield addition since well before the summer deadline.
It was a signing fans expected to be made. Wolves are making up for missing out by aggressively pursuing 22-year-old Patrik Mercado of Independiente del Valle.
Mercado comes from the same academy as Moises Caicedo, and Wolves have been in talks with the Ecuadorian since at least October. Now, a report from South America suggests they are approaching the finish line.
As Maria Jose Flores revealed (via El Diario): “Wolverhampton leads the race for Mercado , with advanced talks backed by the Premier League ‘s financial power…
“The deal is ‘practically finalised’ for a winter transfer, echoing sources close to the English club. Independiente del Valle, known for its youth development model, expects a transfer fee of at least $6.9 million.”
For just over £5 million, it’s a very reasonable fee for a player with heaps of talent and, most importantly, attacking threat.
Which position do Wolves need to prioritise in January?
Patrik Mercado fits the profile to replace Cunha at Wolves
Mercado is an attacking midfielder who plays a central role for title-winning Independiente.
He has seven goals and ten assists for the Ecuadorian side this season as they look to repeat last year’s feat.
Cunha’s absence has been felt at Wolves. The attacking play has been pretty woeful this season, and they need a player who can make things happen in the final third.
Mercado ticks all the boxes. His expected goals per 90 (0.20), shots taken (2.2), progressive carries (2) and progressive passes received (5.58) all rank in the elite range among midfielders, showing just how impactful he can be for an attack.
Jhon Arias was expected to replace Cunha, but has so far struggled for any sort of productivity. It’s a risk bringing in another unproven South American, but it has the potential to work very well and make £5 million feel like a bargain.