Wolverhampton Wanderers are preparing for a crucial January transfer window as new manager Rob Edwards attempts to orchestrate a great escape from Premier League relegation. The club's disastrous start to the campaign has prompted plans for significant squad reinforcements, with a potential £128 million line-up taking shape.
Edwards' Return to Molineux
Rob Edwards finds himself back at Wolves in what represents the biggest challenge of his managerial career. The Telford-born coach first departed the club six years ago in autumn 2019, leaving his role as youth coach to pursue opportunities with England's Under-20 team.
His journey since has been marked by both triumph and adversity. Edwards quickly progressed to head coach of England's Under-16 side before taking charge at Forest Green Rovers, where he defied expectations to win the League Two title in his debut season.
His managerial career hasn't been without setbacks, including an 11-match stint at Watford and subsequent relegation with Luton Town after winning promotion. However, Edwards rebuilt his reputation during 15 matches with Middlesbrough before securing his emotional return to Molineux.
Potential New Signings to Bolster Squad
Edwards is expected to implement his preferred 3-5-2 formation, similar to the system that served him well during Luton Town's Premier League campaign. Several key targets have emerged as potential reinforcements.
In goal, Christos Mandas could arrive on loan from Lazio. The Greek international has attracted Wolves' interest amid reported dissatisfaction with his playing time in Italy. With current goalkeepers Jose Sa and Sam Johnstone struggling for consistency, Mandas represents a potential solution between the posts.
The defence is likely to feature familiar faces, with Ladislav Krejci expected to retain his place after emerging as one of Wolves' better performers this season. He could be joined by Santiago Bueno, whose experience proved valuable during last season's turnaround, and captain Toti Gomes, who will hope to rediscover his form under the new management.
Republic of Ireland international Matt Doherty appears set for the right wing-back role, while Everton's Dwight McNeil could arrive on loan to fill the left wing-back position. Although primarily a winger, McNeil's crossing ability and defensive work rate make him an intriguing option for Edwards' system.
Midfield Reinforcements and Attack
The engine room could see significant changes, with Brazilian duo Joao Gomes and Andre expected to provide the energy and ball-winning capabilities that drove last season's improvement. Gomes has attracted interest from Manchester United, but Wolves cannot afford to lose such a crucial player mid-season.
A potential loan move for Ross Barkley from Aston Villa could provide creative spark. The midfielder flourished under Edwards at Luton Town, delivering performances that sparked calls for England recognition. With 38 Premier League goals across spells with Chelsea and Everton, Barkley's experience could prove invaluable.
In attack, Jorgen Strand Larsen will be crucial to Wolves' survival hopes. The Norwegian striker netted 14 times last season but needs to rediscover that form, with the added incentive of World Cup selection driving his motivation.
He could be partnered by Tolu Arokodare, who has seen limited action despite scoring 21 times in Belgium last season. The Nigerian powerhouse represents a different attacking dimension that Edwards may look to utilise more frequently.
Wolves face a monumental task to preserve their Premier League status, but with strategic January signings and Edwards' renowned man-management skills, the foundation for a great escape could be established. The proposed £128 million line-up demonstrates the ambition at Molineux to address a campaign that has fallen well below expectations.
