"Have the jump on them": Insider claims Wolves could beat top-six rivals to 6 ft 3 monster

Wolverhampton Wanderers are ‘definitely in the hunt’ for Sporting CP midfielder Joao Palhinha ahead of the upcoming transfer window, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The 26-year-old has excelled for the reigning Portuguese champions over the last 18 months or so, leading to speculation over a potential move away from the Estádio José Alvalade.

According to The Athletic, there are major doubts over the futures of key Wolves midfield duo Ruben Neves and Joao Moutinho, with the compatriots possibly set for pastures new in the summer.

The report states that there is ‘an acceptance’ that Neves may be sold if a suitable offer arrives amid interest from Barcelona and top Premier League clubs.

Meanwhile, Moutinho has entered the final few months of his current contract, and while negotiations are still ongoing over a new deal, there is no guarantee that he will commit his future to the club.

And Palhinha, along with Sporting teammate Matheus Luiz Nunes, are said to be the players on Wolves’ radar as they prepare to rebuild their engine room ahead of next season.

Arsenal BATTERED by Crystal Palace! Full reaction on The Football Terrace…

The two Portugal internationals have formed a formidable partnership in the capital club’s engine room of late, helping to guide Rúben Amorim’s charges to their first top-flight title in 19 years last term.

However, freelance reporter Jacque Talbot has previously claimed Tottenham, Manchester United and Newcastle are also in the running for Palhinha before stating that Molineux is his ‘most likely’ destination.

Palhinha’s agent is Jorge Mendes, who has a very close relationship with the Wolves hierarchy and has moved several of his clients to the Midlands outfit in recent years.

And Jones