Wolves squad depth highlights clear transfer need ahead of two exits

Wolverhampton Wanderers have only made one signing this summer - but they have replaced two of the senior stars who left Molineux in May.

Nathan Collins, who has arrived from Burnley for around £20million, will fill the hole Romain Saiss’s departure has left in Wolves’ defence. Montenegro international goalkeeper Matija Sarkic, meanwhile, will replace John Ruddy as Jose Sa’s understudy.

Wolves believe they have upgraded in both positions with Collins, a 21-year-old Republic of Ireland international, tipped for big things and Sarkic viewed as more fierce competition for Sa. Wolves’ aims for the rest of the transfer window, as things stand, centre around improving their midfield and striking options.

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A quick look at the club’s squad depth now that Patrick Cutrone has been cast aside, and Fabio Silva is due to be loaned out to Anderlecht, shows a shortage of competition for Raul Jimenez. Hwang Hee-chan can play centrally, but the South Korean is better suited to operating as a wide forward than being the focal point.

Lage would prefer to work with three strikers, but Wolves are only likely to sign one. Hwang will have to step in as third choice centre-forward if needed, just as he did last season.

Wolves are reasonably well stocked in defence, especially at centre-back where Lage now has six options. Full-back has become an area of weakness due to Nelson Semedo’s hamstring injury lay-off, although he is making excellent progress in his recovery.

Lage currently has Jonny