Wolves would reportedly have listened to offers for Raul Jimenez this January had they been able to find a suitable out-and-out striker to replace him.
That is the claim from the Daily Mail today via their transfer live blog (1.26pm).
Apparently, Wanderers officials would have been willing to sanction the £30 million Mexican’s exit.
But that was dependent on them identifying a number nine. Wolves were ultimately unable to find anyone suitable.
Wolves did bring in Matheus Cunha right at the start of the window.
The Brazilian is a versatile attacker, but not really a proper striker that leads the line. He works better playing off a Jimenez or a Diego Costa.
Wolves fans had wondered if the club would be bringing in another centre-forward.
There were links to West Ham United striker Michail Antonio. And also Coventry City’s Viktor Gyokeres.
But the club have not made any more movements since Cunha came in, indicating that Julen Lopetegui is satisfied with the make-up of his squad.
Jimenez’s future was somewhat uncertain heading into January.
The 31-year-old came back from the World Cup having been linked with a move to the MLS, and also his old team Club America.
His struggles for fitness and form left some to wonder if he would still be a Wolves player come the end of January.
Well, it looks like he will be, barring any madness tonight.
Raul Jimenez staying at Wolves is a positive
Wolves may not have been able to find a suitable replacement for Jimenez this month. But him staying is a positive thing.
Unquestionably, Jimenez is no longer the player he used to be.
The skull injury has inevitably had a lasting impact. But he’s also struggled with that groin injury he had earlier this season. These things have meant he is simply not as dynamic or even confident as he used to be.
Regardless, he still has a role to play for Wolves.
Despite being far below his best levels, he’s still got three goals for Wolves this season. Former Wolves midfielder Dave Edwards suggested recently that he had been improving.
He’s more effective than Costa, and definitely has the potential to help guide Wolves to safety.