Everton are reportedly now closing in on a deal for Wolves captain Conor Coady.
Journalist Paul Joyce claims the Merseyside outfit are nearing a deal for the 29-year-old.
He adds that the move could be a loan initially, with a view to buy.
Fabrizio Romano reports that personal terms are ‘almost agreed’ and that Coady now wants the move.
It is a remarkable development, considering there had been no talk about Coady just a few weeks ago.
But in pre-season, Lage has been using a back four and in the first game of the season yesterday against Leeds United, Maximilian Kilman and Nathan Collins started as a pair.
Coady was on the bench, and the formation change undoubtedly brings his starter status into jeopardy.
It was reported earlier this week that Wolves could sanction Coady’s exit, with the player having an eye on the World Cup squad.
It seems Wolves are now ready to sanction the move, which will undoubtedly be very controversial.
Wolves sanctioning loan move for Conor Coady would be bizarre
It is hard to understand why Wolves would want to sanction a loan move for Coady.
Of course, the player will want to be playing regularly ahead of the World Cup which is very understandable. But if Coady was allowed to depart and Wolves had trouble with the new system then serious questions would need to be asked.
It’s a tricky situation, but Wolves have to consider the implications of not having Coady around. Especially having let several experienced stars go already.
If Coady is going to depart, Wolves have got to make sure they receive compensation now, and not next summer.
The funds can then be reinvested to make the team stronger.