Wolves are closing in on their first signing under Vitor Pereira, with reports suggesting the club has reached an agreement to bring in a new defender during the January transfer window. This move is seen as a crucial step to address their defensive frailties.
Defensive Reinforcements Needed
Wolves have struggled defensively this season, conceding 42 goals in 19 Premier League matches—a rate of 2.21 goals per game.
However, since Pereira’s arrival, the team has shown signs of improvement, conceding just twice in three matches.
The defensive issues stem from the club’s failure to adequately replace Max Kilman, who departed for West Ham United in a £45m transfer.
Wolves brought in teenage prospect Bastien Meupiyou, but he has yet to make his debut. As a result, both Pereira and former manager Gary O’Neil have had to experiment with makeshift defensive setups, including using Matt Doherty and Mario Lemina as emergency centre-backs.
An injury to Toti, who is expected to be sidelined for up to a month, has further highlighted the need for reinforcements.
Wolves have now turned to the transfer market to shore up their defence and strengthen their bid to remain in the Premier League.
Wolves Secure £16m Deal for Emmanuel Agbadou
According to reports, Wolves have reached an agreement to sign Stade Reims centre-back Emmanuel Agbadou in a deal worth €20m (£16.6m).
The 27-year-old Ivory Coast international has been a standout performer for Reims this season, helping them maintain a solid defensive record with just 21 goals conceded in 16 Ligue 1 games.
Standing at 6ft 3in, Agbadou is known for his strength, aerial ability, and defensive reliability.
As per Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna, Wolves will pay “around €20m” for the defender, who is set to earn approximately £50,000 per week in wages.
The move was effectively confirmed by the Reims President, who stated: “The two clubs have reached agreement. Same thing for the player. All he has to do is pass his medical and sign his contract. Wolverhampton’s offer couldn’t be refused.”
A Strong Addition to Pereira’s Defence
Agbadou brings experience and versatility, excelling as a ball-playing defender with “exceptional long ball skills” and “great interception abilities,” according to scouting platform Concept Scouting.
This season, he has averaged over three tackles and interceptions per game, further underlining his defensive acumen.
While Agbadou is more accustomed to playing in a back four, he is expected to adapt quickly to Pereira’s system, providing immediate support to a struggling Wolves defence.
Though he won’t be available for the clash against Nottingham Forest, the Ivorian could make his debut in Wolves’ upcoming FA Cup tie against Bristol City.
This signing represents a significant investment and a statement of intent from Wolves as they aim to solidify their backline and improve their Premier League standing under Pereira’s guidance.
