New Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Rob Edwards is preparing for a critical January transfer window, with the club reportedly ready to step up their pursuit of Bournemouth midfielder David Brooks.
The Creative Crisis at Molineux
Edwards, who is soon to be confirmed as the successor to the departed Middlesbrough boss, faces what sources describe as an almighty task to preserve Wolves' Premier League status. The team's dire situation is highlighted by a shocking statistic: just seven goals scored in 11 matches, the lowest return in the entire division.
The problem is particularly acute with last season's top scorer, Jorgen Strand Larsen, who has yet to find the net from open play this campaign. The Norwegian striker, who bagged 14 goals last term, has struggled immensely following the departure of his attacking partner, Matheus Cunha, and his own protracted transfer saga involving Newcastle United.
Brooks Emerges as Primary January Target
According to reports from Mail Sport, Wolves are expected to return for a former transfer target to address their creativity deficit: Bournemouth's David Brooks. The 28-year-old Wales international was linked with a move to Molineux in the summer, but the club ultimately signed Jhon Arias from Fluminense and the inexperienced Fer Lopez from Celta Vigo.
That decision has backfired, with the pair contributing a combined zero goals and just one assist so far. Brooks, while also goalless this season, offers a vastly different proposition with his 97 appearances of Premier League experience, during which he has scored 11 times and provided seven assists.
Although primarily a rotation option for Bournemouth last season, making just nine starts, Brooks has seen more action this term, starting seven league matches and appearing from the bench on three occasions.
Other Potential Targets for Wolves
Brooks is not the only player on Edwards' radar. The search for creativity and top-flight experience could also lead Wolves to the door of Everton's Dwight McNeil. The winger excelled in a central role early last season but has fallen out of favour since David Moyes replaced Sean Dyche.
Another name in the frame is Fulham's Harrison Reed, who could be available on loan due to his lack of game time. However, a deal may be complicated if Fulham consider Wolves a direct relegation rival.
Furthermore, Birmingham World has suggested that James Ward-Prowse could be a shrewd acquisition. The set-piece specialist is struggling for minutes at West Ham United under Nuno Espirito Santo and has not even made the bench since the manager's arrival.
The January window represents a pivotal moment for the club and for Rob Edwards, whose first major signing could be the key to orchestrating a great escape from the Premier League's relegation zone.
