Wolverhampton Wanderers ace Ruben Vinagre is reportedly attracting Premier League interest.
Ruben Vinagre (L) of Wolverhampton Wanderers is challenged by Callum O’Dowda
According to Portuguese newspaper Record, Wolverhampton Wanderers are chasing a permanent deal for Monaco’s Ruben Vinagre – but Premier League clubs are also interested.
Wolves used their links with Jorge Mendes to land a number of Portuguese talents over the summer, with Roderick Miranda, Ruben Neves and Diogo Jota all arriving, but the deal to bring in teenager Ruben Vinagre almost slipped under the radar.
The 18-year-old left back, formerly of Sporting Lisbon, signed for Monaco in 2015, where he joined compatriots and now Wolves team-mates Helder Costa and Ivan Cavaleiro.
Jeremy Pied of Southampton in action with Ruben Vinagre
Vinagre was predominantly brought in as cover for fellow new signing Barry Douglas at left wing back, but he has started six Championship games this season, and his impressive performances are attracting attention.
Record report that Wolves are attempting to secure a permanent deal with Monaco ahead of the January transfer window, primarily because unnamed Premier League clubs are understood to be interested.
It’s unclear just who those teams are, but Everton make sense as one possible suitor, given that Ronald Koeman is lacking depth at left back, and the Toffees need to bring in a talented young left back to eventually take over from Leighton Baines.
Given Newcastle United’s lack of options at left back make them another club who fit the bill, with manager Rafael Benitez potentially viewing Vinagre as competition for Paul Dummett, having used four players at left back already this season.
Wolves will be hoping that Vinagre has enjoyed his time at Molineux enough to snub Premier League interest and stay with Nuno Espirito Santo, especially with Wolves vying for promotion to the top flight this term.
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