Sheffield Wednesday’s Lucas Joao would be right at home at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Wolverhampton Wanderers’ striking situation could be next on Nuno Espirito Santo’s list of items to address.
Since his appointment two months ago, the Portuguese has added to his goalkeeping, defensive and midfield departments, but is yet to get stuck into Wolves’ front line – despite being linked with moves for Ike Ugbo, Vincent Aboubakar and Jordan Hugill.
Having already loaned Paul Gladon back to Heracles, Nuno has been left with only Nouha Dicko, Joe Mason and Bright Enobakhare as central strikers – and while Dicko has struck two in two this pre-season, the Wolves boss could do with reinforcements.
Wolves’ Nouha Dicko
But with a significant chunk of his budget splashed on Porto midfielder Ruben Neves, could a loan move for Sheffield Wednesday’s Lucas Joao work for Wolves?
What’s his situation?
Less than two years after he announced himself in English football with seven goals in his first 20 appearances – including one against Arsenal – Joao is sixth in the pecking order at Hillsborough, behind Steven Fletcher, Gary Hooper, Jordan Rhodes, Sam Winnall and Atdhe Nuhiu. He did however impress with three goals on loan to Blackburn in the second half of last season and was on target on Wednesday’s 3-2 friendly win at Mansfield on Saturday.
Why would Wolves want him?
As Joao’s Blackburn loan proved, he can be an asset at Championship level – and let’s not forget he was capped by Portugal’s senior team as recently as 21 months ago. Given the 23-year-old’s potential, Wednesday would perhaps favour a loan move with two years left on his contract, which could suit Wolves financially.
Why would he want Wolves?
Like any footballer Joao needs to be out playing and – barring injury to any of his above teammates – his chances of doing that at Wednesday are slim. If he is to move on then choosing the right environment will be crucial, and Wolves’ heavy Portuguese contingent could make Molineux the ideal setting as he seeks to rediscover his best form.
Sheffield Wednesday’s Lucas Joao [third right]
Any complications?
Despite the gap between the two teams last season, Wolves’ summer business suggests they could be a force to be reckoned with this time out, and the Owls may be reluctant to help out a side they consider to be rivals for promotion.
Should Wolves move for Sheffield Wednesday’s Lucas Joao?
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