Wolves defender Fernando Marcal’s proposed move to Botafogo is now ‘only a matter of time’.
The Brazilian was linked with a move back to his homeland last week.
And it seems the situation is developing quite fast, with Globo Esporte now reporting that the move should go through.
Of course, Marcal is out of contact at Molineux at the end of the season.
He only signed a two-year deal with the club when he joined from Lyon in 2020.
It looks as though an extension will not be forthcoming, with the South American set to return to Brazil for the first time since leaving Guaratinguetá in 2010.
The report states nothing has officially been signed yet. But the move is now only a matter of time.
Marcal is proven to be a decent buy for Wolves and nothing too much more.
He started the current campaign as the number choice at left wing-back. But he mostly plays second fiddle to Rayan Ait-Nouri now.
He’s had several injury problems during his time in the Black Country, limiting him to just 30 appearances to date.
Given the return of Jonny Castro Otto, and the fact Bruno Lage is ready to have a look at loanee Ryan Giles when he returns this summer, news of Marcal’s likely exit doesn’t come as too much of a surprise.
Moving Marcal on would be the right decision from Wolves
Wolves not handing Marcal a contract extension would be the right call.
He only cost £1.78 million. The club should feel comfortable letting the player depart as a free agent at this point.
He’s had some good games for the club.
But ultimately, he’s 33 now and that injury record is not so ideal. It’s possible it won’t improve the older he gets.
Wolves should move the player on, and open up a space in the squad for someone like Giles or a new signing to come in and compete for minutes.