Wolves keen to win race for “imperious” £25m defender who pocketed Vlahovic

Wolverhampton Wanderers are now keen to win the race for an “imperious” defender, who is expected to cost over £25m, but there could be competition for his signature from rival Premier League clubs, according to a report.

Wolves eyeing centre-back signings

Wolves have managed to steer themselves six points clear of the relegation zone due to an uptick in form under Vitor Pereira, putting themselves in a strong position to avoid the drop with 10 games left to play.

However, Pereira will be keen to avoid being in a relegation dogfight again next season, and given that his side have one of the worst defensive records in the league, new defenders are now being eyed ahead of the summer transfer window.

The Old Gold are showing an interest in Everton centre-back Michael Keane, who is set to be available on a free transfer at the end of the season, with the Toffees looking unlikely to renew the Englishman’s contract.

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Keane is proven in the Premier League over a number of years, but there are also indications Wolves may take a gamble on more of an unproven quantity, with a report from GiveMeSport revealing they are keen on winning the race for Genoa’s Koni De Winter.

There is widespread interest in De Winter from the Premier League, with West Ham United, Nottingham Forest and Manchester United also named as potential suitors, although the Red Devils are not expected to make a move.

The Genoa defender is expected to have a price tag of over £25m, having put in some impressive performances in the Serie A this season, and there is also a feeling he could also end up remaining in Italy, with AC Milan recently expressing an interest.

“Imperious” De Winter impressing in Italy

The 22-year-old has put in some top displays in Italy since making the move to Genoa, with journalist Sacha Tavolieri describing him as “imperious”, while also praising the way in which he was able to hold off Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic.

Not only is the centre-back solid defensively, but he also poses a real attacking threat, ranking in the 97th percentile for non-penalty goals per 90 over the past year, when compared to his positional peers.

The Belgian’s aerial ability was also on show when he scored a back-post header in his side’s 2-0 victory against Monza back in January.

As such, it is clear to see why a number of Premier League clubs are queuing up for the Genoa star, and Wolves should continue to monitor his performances between now and the end of the season.