Wolves could sign 'ideal Neves replacement' in 'special' £20m star at Molineux

Wolves target JoaoPalhinha could be the “ideal replacement” for Ruben Neves, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Midlands club are thought to be closing in on a deal to sign the Sporting Lisbon midfielder as they prepare for a possible Neves departure this summer.

According to The Sun, Palhinha has agreed to join Wolves when the transfer window opens.

The deal to take the 26-year-old from the Jose Alvalade Stadium to Molineux is thought to be worth £20m.

Wolves’ move for Palhinha comes at a time where Neves’ future is uncertain. Multiple outlets, including The Sun, claim that the former Porto man is a target for Manchester United.

Neves recently hinted that now could be the time for him to leave Bruno Lage’s side, so an exit this summer certainly looks like a possibility.

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If Wolves are to lose Neves, O’Rourke thinks Palhinha could be the perfect successor.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the journalist said: “He could be an ideal replacement for Neves and will give out the right signal that Wolves are looking to strengthen their squad because there will be concerns for Wolves next season if they do lose their top players, such as Neves.”

In Palhinha, Wolves would be getting a midfielder who excels are winning the ball back.

As per FBref, the Portugal international ranked in the 99th percentile for pressures and 86th for tackles among midfielders over the last year.

So while Palhinha may not be as technical as Neves and the same profile of midfielder, he could still be a very good addition to this Wolves side, especially if they are to lose his compatriot in the upcoming transfer window.

Speaking in a press conference about Palhinha