Wolves are reportedly interested in Almeria forward El Bilal Toure.
Foot Mercato have reported today that Wanderers are very keen on the striker and are ready to make a bid of £22 million.
This season, Toure has made 19 appearances across all competitions and scored six goals. He would have featured more if not for a muscle injury he suffered earlier this year.
As a result of that setback, Toure has not played for Almeria since mid-March.
Toure has only been with the Spanish outfit since last summer, when he transferred from French club Reims.
But his performances this season have caught the eye of Wolves.
The club are apparently willing to offer £22 million, ‘plus additional bonuses to quickly finalise the deal’. They see him as a potentially promising addition to their squad.
Brentford are also said to be showing interest in Toure, who has 13 caps for Mali.
Wanderers face losing Raul Jimenez this summer. The Mexican has been struggling to make matchday squads of late, and is wanted by at least five clubs.
Diego Costa may also depart after just one season. That said, Julen Lopetegui reportedly wants to keep the veteran for another season.
Fabio Silva may see his loan spell with PSV Eindhoven extended.
The Daily Mail suggest there is also interest in Toure from Burnley, who of course will play in the Premier League next season.
They also say the star has previously had comparison to Chelsea legend Didier Drogba.
El Bilal Toure could be a risk for Wolves, but he has big potential
This is an interesting claim from Foot Mercato.
Undoubtedly, Toure has the potential to become a top striker. His former manager David Guion said of the youngster a few years ago (via Left Back Football): “He is a very complete boy. El Bilal has an ability to repeat efforts, he can keep the ball back to the goal and he is able to take the depth, even if he still has to work his technique in small perimeters and his touch of the ball.”
But Toure’s record of six goals in 20 games for Almeria, and nine goals in 64 games for remains doesn’t suggest him as being the answer for Wolves.
Perhaps Viktor Gyokeres ought to be the priority this summer.
He’s just had a terrific season with Coventry City, and may be a less risky signing at a similar price.