According to César Luis Merlo, Wolves are now in talks to sign Manchester City target Maximo Perrone from Vélez Sarsfield.
What’s the story?
Well, Bruno Lage could be about to beat Manchester City to a genuine wonderkid.
Merlo – a reliable South American journalist – believes Wolves are negotiating a deal to sign Perrone on a permanent basis, before loaning him back to the Argentinian outfit.
O Jogo have backed up the news.
The 19-year-old is said to have a $10m (£8.4m) release clause in his contract, an easily affordable sum for Wolves.
However, there is urgency to get a deal wrapped up quickly, as Pep Guardiola could swoop in and pinch Perrone.
It was ESPN who claimed that the Citizens are also tracking the Argentina Under-20 international.
Manchester City have only recently taken Julian Alvarez – who was arguably the best player in Argentinian football – from River Plate, so their scouts have surely run the rule over Perrone as well.
Guardiola has also been able to see the teenage defensive midfielder attempt to shackle Alvarez – the pair have played against each other, as you can see by the image atop the article.
Wolves could beat Manchester City to a gem
Big things are expected of Perrone, and if Wolves do manage to get their hands on him, it would be a seriously exciting move.
Argentina are said to view the youngster as the “jewel” of their future, and if he lives up to his potential, he could even succeed Lionel Messi as the nation’s talisman.
In our view, Wolves are being very smart here – their succession planning is clear for all to see.
Ruben Neves will have just 12 months left on his contract at the end of the season, while Wolves are also acutely aware that they won’t be able to hold onto Matheus Nunes forever – it has been said that he may only be at Molineux for one season.
Therefore, a move for Perrone – even if he is immediately loaned back – would give Lage a replacement for Neves or Nunes if one ends up leaving next summer.
Keep an eye on this situation, as talks continue.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
