Wolves missed out on a midfield addition during the summer window, but they are looking to make a move for a highly-rated Ecuadorian who Chelsea are interested in.
Vitor Pereira wasn’t shy about voicing his frustration when Wolves failed to sign a midfielder before the window shut.
It was seen as an area needing depth, but by the time the September 1st deadline had passed, no reinforcements had been made.
Ladislav Krejci’s ability to move into midfield has helped ease that loss, and Marshall Munetsi has looked capable in the central areas, but Wolves still want to bring someone in.
Wolves have met with Chelsea target Patrik Mercado
Wolves’ interest in 22-year-old Patrik Mercado was first reported over the summer, and they appear to be maintaining their interest for a future move.
According to Bolavip, the Ecuadorian has met with officials from Wolves to discuss a move.
They write: “Although Chelsea were reportedly very interested in signing Patrik Mercado, the Ecuadorian midfielder is reportedly on the verge of signing for Wolverhampton. Wolves have been pursuing the player since the summer transfer window.
“Mercado wants to play in the Premier League, and Wolves have reportedly already met with him and presented their plans for the move. The 22-year-old player, according to various reports, has met with club officials in Portugal.”
That Chelsea have been looking at Mercado has to be seen as a promising sign, considering how much time and finances the Blues put in to recruitment. He plays for Independiente del Valle, the club where current Chelsea star Moises Caicedo was first discovered.
Mercado is a completely different profile to Caicedo
Despite their similar origins, Caicedo is an entirely different type of player to Mercado.
Where the Chelsea number six is a defensive monster and world-class distributor from deep, the man Wolves are after is an attack-minded eight. He loves to get into positions high up the pitch and is fearless in driving the ball forward.
Mercado could operate as a more forward-thinking central midfielder for Pereira or as a more advanced number 10.
This season, the 22-year-old has already played over 2000 minutes, registering seven goals and ten assists.
With his contract expiring in 2026, Wolves should be able to get him for cheap — less than £5 million.
He would add an exciting element to this Wolves midfield, and his age profile leaves plenty of room for growth. If Mercado’s ceiling is anything like that of Caicedo, this would be a smart bit of business indeed.