Wolverhampton Wanderers are facing a critical January transfer window, tasked with a delicate balancing act between an improbable fight for Premier League survival and pragmatic planning for a likely Championship campaign next season.
With the club 16 points from safety at Christmas, new manager Rob Edwards has been hired with a long-term view, yet the opportunity for a historic escape remains. The struggles of recently relegated clubs like Sheffield United and Luton Town serve as a stark warning, making strategic recruitment essential whether Wolves are in the top flight or the second tier next term.
Predicted Incomings: A New Keeper and Midfield Reinforcements
According to a simulation using Football Manager 2026, Wolves could address a key weakness by signing goalkeeper David Soria from Getafe for a cut-price £2.6 million. Current number one Jose Sa has statistically been one of the league's poorest shot-stoppers this season, with a concerning record of conceding more goals than expected. Soria, whose contract expires in the summer, represents a significant potential upgrade.
In midfield, the simulation suggests a move for Ibrahima Sissoko from VfL Bochum for £3.8 million. The experienced defensive midfielder, formerly of Strasbourg, is seen as a solid if unspectacular addition to bolster the squad's core. The deal is viewed as somewhat unlikely in reality, given Sissoko's recent move to FC Nantes for a lower fee.
The virtual window also saw Wolves secure several young prospects for nominal fees, including Chelsea's Frankie Runham, Andrew Rick from Philadelphia Union, and Arsenal's Harrison Dudziak.
Potential Outgoings: Raising Funds and Offloading Squad Players
To facilitate new arrivals, several departures are predicted. Veteran full-back Matt Doherty could leave for £4.3 million to Leicester City, a move considered financially beneficial for Wolves given the 34-year-old's limited role and expiring contract.
Defender Ki-Jana Hoever is tipped for a £2.7 million switch to Ajax, the club where he began his youth career, though his current loan at Sheffield United complicates this scenario. Meanwhile, centre-back Santiago Bueno is forecast to join French side Nice on a loan deal.
The simulation also includes Fabian Salmon's nominal fee move to Wigan Athletic, alongside loan departures for youngsters Wesley Okoduwa to Stevenage and Lewys Benjamin to York City.
A Window of Strategic Importance
This January represents a pivotal moment for Wolves' short and medium-term future. Every decision must weigh the slim chance of a miraculous survival under Edwards against the near-certainty of a 2026/27 season focused on promotion from the Championship. The club's activity, whether aligning with these Football Manager predictions or not, will be closely scrutinised by a fanbase eager for signs of a coherent plan, regardless of which division Wolves find themselves in come August.
