"Could happen quite easily": Journalist now tips Wolves move for £25.5m target approved by Lage

Wolverhampton Wanderers are chasing Sporting midfielder Joao Palhinha and it is a deal that ‘could happen quite easily’ at Molineux, according to Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor.

Bruno Lage was appointed as Wolves’ head coach last summer and, after guiding them to a 10th place finish in the Premier League, it seems he is keen to welcome Palhinha to the West Midlands.

According to Portuguese media outlet Correio da Manha, via Sport Witness, Lage has approved a big-money move for Palhinha ahead of the summer transfer window officially opening for business next week.

The report suggests Sporting are demanding £25.5million for the 12-cap Portugal international, which falls some way short of the £50million release clause written into his contract.

Wolves are pushing ahead with a move and, according to the Telegraph reporter Mike McGrath, negotiations over a fee are underway after making an approach.

The defensive midfielder first worked his way onto Wolves’ radar due to doubts creeping in over whether Ruben Neves will remain at Molineux heading into next season.

But they may have to move quickly to get a deal over the line as Tottenham Hotspur, Leicester City and Everton are also understood to be admirers.

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Taylor believes Palhinha is likely to be on Wolves’ books by the time the upcoming transfer window slams shut.

The journalist feels the Portuguese could be an ideal replacement if Neves’ stay in the West Midlands comes to an end.

However, he understands that Wolves boss Lage does not want to lose his fellow countryman in the not-too-distant future.

Taylor told GIVEMESPORT: “I think that’s one that could happen