Wolverhampton Wanderers, under the management of Gary O’Neill, narrowly avoided financial fair play penalties after selling players worth over €150 million last summer.
However, the club may continue to explore fundraising opportunities, with Pedro Neto and Rayan Ait-Nouri being their most valuable assets.
Neto, a 23-year-old Portuguese international, has been valued at approximately €93 million, which would place him among the top 15 transfers in Premier League history if sold.
Despite his impressive performances this season, rebounding from two career-threatening injuries, his transfer value is still below players like Antony, Mykhailo Mudryk, and Jadon Sancho, who have achieved fewer goals and assists combined.
Ait-Nouri, a standout left-back, has attracted interest from top clubs like Liverpool and Manchester City.
His defensive contributions have significantly impacted Wolves’ performance, helping the team concede fewer goals than all teams outside the top six.
Both players have substantial time left on their contracts and are content at the club, making their departure uncertain.
However, the lure of joining top Premier League sides could be challenging to resist, especially with lucrative bids that could help Wolves avoid financial penalties.
Neto’s unique profile as a left-footed right winger makes him an attractive alternative for Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka.
Ait-Nouri could also upgrade Arsenal’s left-back position.
Liverpool may consider Neto if Mohamed Salah exits, given interest from Saudi Arabian clubs.
Wolves’ reluctance to lose key players is understandable, but their departure would bring substantial benefits to the club.
Retaining them presents a formidable challenge, having nurtured them into standout performers in the Premier League.
The club’s progress under O’Neill is evident, with Neto among the Premier League’s top assist providers and Ait-Nouri ranking among the league’s top defensive players under 23.
Wolves have the highest goal tally among bottom-half teams and have conceded fewer goals than all teams outside the top six.
While Wolves may not be eager to sell their prized assets, the potential benefits of their departure could be substantial.
The club’s financial situation and the players’ desire to join top Premier League sides may ultimately lead to their exit.
However, retaining them would be a significant achievement, given their value to the team and their potential to drive success in the Premier League.
