Rodrigo Fernandes
According to a report from the Daily Star, Wolves are in advanced negotiations to secure the signing of Sporting Lisbon midfielder Rodrigo Fernandes in a £10.6m deal this summer.
The 19-year-old Fernandes is a product of the Sporting youth academy. Regarded as one of the brightest prospects to have come through the ranks, the midfielder broke into the club’s U23 side this season. So far, he has turned out 24 times for the reserves, scoring one goal in the process.
Fernandes also made his first-team debut for Sporting in October last year. Till date, he has made four senior appearances, two of which have come in the UEFA Europa League.
Wolves have had another impressive season, as they sit 6th in the Premier League table, with a real shot at another campaign in Europe. But for them to take the next step and push for a top-four finish in the coming seasons, it is important that the club strengthen the squad.
Midfield is one area where manager Nuno Espirito Santo should look to bring in reinforcements this summer. They have two talented young central midfielders Ruben Neves and Leander Dendoncker.
But Joao Moutinho, who is a regular in the first-team, will be 34 years old in September and will need a long-term replacement. In addition, Romain Saiss has been moved into a centre-back role this term.
Hence, signing a new midfielder to add more depth and quality to the middle of the park would be a smart move by the Midlands club. To that end, the 19-year-old Fernandes would be a viable option. While the Sporting academy graduate has just four senior appearances to his name till date, the youngster has shown promise in those, while also impressing for the U23s.
The midfielder has represented the Portuguese national team at all age groups and has done well. Currently a member of the Portuguese U19 side, he has racked up 23 appearances for them, bagging one goal.
Signing the 19-year-old would mean more depth in the central midfield position for Wolves. And under the tutelage of an accomplished coach like Nuno, the Sporting starlet can flourish into a future star for Wolves.
At 19, Fernandes is still a raw talent but with plenty of potential. With Wolves needing someone to add depth to the central midfield department, the Portuguese would be a handy addition. And with experience, he can develop into an important member of the team, eventually going on to replace compatriot Joao Moutinho.
