Wolverhampton Wanderers’ primary concern at the moment is ensuring their survival in the Premier League, as a challenging set of fixtures has resulted in disappointing results. However, once their relegation battle is over, they face the additional threat of losing key players in the summer transfer window, which would only add to their troubles.
Wolves had a rough start to the season, facing six of the top seven teams from last year’s final league table in their first eight games. With only one point earned against Nottingham Forest, they have remained near the relegation zone. Although a brief revival in the winter months allowed them to distance themselves from the bottom three, recent poor results under Vitor Pereira – just three points from the last six games – have left them only two points clear of safety with 13 games remaining.
Even if Wolves manage to stay up, they risk losing their standout players—Matheus Cunha, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Joao Gomes—who may be lured away by clubs seeking regular European football.
Matheus Cunha Could Be Lured to Another Premier League Club
Cunha has been the driving force behind Wolves’ season, contributing to 16 of their 35 goals so far, including scoring in every Premier League win. His importance to Vitor Pereira’s squad is undeniable. Naturally, this has attracted significant interest, with Arsenal, Aston Villa, and even Nottingham Forest being linked to the Brazilian forward.
Despite Cunha signing a new deal in January, which keeps him at Molineux until 2029 with a £90,000-per-week salary, rumors suggest that Arsenal and Villa could look to negotiate a deal below his £60million release clause this summer. If Wolves do part ways with Cunha, replacing him will be crucial for their chances of staying in the Premier League.
Ait-Nouri’s Future Could Be Decided in the Summer
Rayan Ait-Nouri, another key player, has also attracted attention from other clubs. The Algerian international, who has been a standout performer for Wolves since joining in 2020, has registered three goals and five assists this season. His versatility allows him to play both as a left-back and in midfield, making him a valuable asset. With interest from top clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool, Ait-Nouri could be one of the first to leave if Wolves are relegated. Wolves do have an option to extend his contract until 2027, but given his relatively low wage of £10,000 per week, they may need to sell him in the summer to avoid losing him cheaply.
Joao Gomes Could Complete a Trio of Departures
Joao Gomes, who joined Wolves from Flamengo two years ago, has also impressed since his arrival, establishing himself as a crucial part of the midfield. With nine appearances for Brazil’s national team and strong performances at Wolves, Gomes has attracted interest from several top Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United. His tenacity in midfield makes him an appealing target, and Wolves may face a tough decision if the bigger clubs come calling this summer.
If Cunha, Ait-Nouri, and Gomes all depart, it would represent a significant blow to Wolves’ squad depth and their efforts to stay in the Premier League, potentially leaving them to rebuild in a difficult transfer market.
Wolves Must Plan for Life Without £130,000-p/w Trio as Summer Exits on Cards
