Wolverhampton Wanderers will be hoping to put a largely disappointing Championship season behind them this summer.
Wolves manager Paul Lambert
After a difficult season in the Championship, Wolves boss Paul Lambert will not only be looking at which players he can bring in to help the Molineux side move up the table next year, but he will also be aware that keeping one of their star players will also be an important task.
Helder Costa has enjoyed a sensational first year in England, and has been attracting attention from the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea this term (via Daily Mirror).
Lambert has however admitted that keeping Costa is not a guarantee if the right offer comes in (via Birmingham Mail), and thus, preparing for his potential departure could be a smart idea.
One player who may be a great option to pursue is Arsenal starlet Jon Toral, whose previous spells in the second tier suggest that he would be capable of filling the void that Costa could leave behind.
Wolves’ Helder Costa (C) celebrates
Toral – currently on loan with Scottish Premiership side Rangers – proved to be a key man during loan spells with both Brentford and Birmingham earlier in his career, so may relish a return to the Championship, especially if it is with a club like Wolves who should undoubtedly be looking to compete near the summit.
It, of course, remains to be seen what the Gunners have planned for Toral, but given the competition in his position at the Emirates, it would hardly be a surprise if they were willing to sanction another loan deal, or perhaps even a permanent exit.
Jon Toral of Arsenal (L)
And if it becomes inevitable that Costa is going to leave Molineux, with Arsenal amongst the clubs willing to sign him, and the Gunners are willing to let Toral leave permanently, then perhaps the Championship side could try and arrange some kind of swap deal as they would not only recoup plenty of funds after selling their best player, but they would also have Toral at their disposal.
And if he can rediscover the form he has previously shown when plying his trade at Griffin Park or St Andrew’s, then he would surely be a great addition to the squad this summer.
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