Wolves now enter race to sign “superb” defender who could join on free transfer
Wolverhampton Wanderers have now entered the race to sign a “superb” defender in 2026, and he could be available on a free transfer.
Wolves looking to shore up shaky defence
At this point, Wolves are likely to have major concerns about recording the lowest-ever Premier League points total, having taken a measly two points from their opening 17 games, with Derby County the unwanted holders of the existing record, after collecting 11 points in 2007-08.
Not only have the Old Gold been extremely poor from an attacking point of view, having scored just nine league goals, their defence has also leaked goals far too often, shipping 37, the highest number of any top flight side.
In truth, it could be difficult to attract new players when the transfer window opens in just over one week, given that Rob Edwards’ side are already 16 points adrift of safety, having lost nine matches on the spin in all competitions.
However, they have now set out to sign a new defender, according to a report from Quotidiano Sportivo (via Sport Witness), which states that Wolves have joined the race for Union Berlin’s Diogo Leite, who is expected to leave the German club in 2026.
Indeed, with Leite’s contract due to expire at the end of the season, he will be free to start negotiating a move to a new club next month, with a free transfer possible in the summer, and there is no shortage of potential suitors waiting in the wings.
Bologna, Fiorentina and Girona are also credited with an interest in the Union Berlin star, with a move to Molineux currently deemed unlikely, given that he has aspirations of playing in Europe.
Wolves now want to sign 'top talent' from Man City with player set to leave in January
Rob Edwards’ side need inspiration from somewhere.
ByEmilio Galantini "Superb" Leite could be excellent signing for Wolves
In truth, the chances of Wolves being able to get a deal done seem thin, given that it is looking increasingly likely they will be playing Championship football next season, but the 26-year-old could be a solid addition to Edwards’ squad.
Lauded as “superb” by scout Jacek Kulig, the Portuguese defender is experienced in Europe, having made 16 appearances in the Europa League and 10 in the Champions League, while he has also caught the eye in the Bundesliga over the past year.
Diogo Leite’s key statistics
Average per 90 (past year)
Interceptions
1.63 (94th percentile)
Blocks
1.59 (88th percentile)
Clearances
7.04 (88th percentile)
Aerials won
2.75 (77th percentile)
In fact, given the level of the Porto-born defender’s performances, he is now starting to attract interest from some of Europe’s top clubs.
As such, while Wolves clearly need some inspiration from somewhere if they are going to avoid the drop, Leite may not be an attainable target in January, or at the end of the campaign, at which point they will most likely be a Championship club.