The latest transfer news as Wolves and Everton battle to sign a Sunderland star.
Wolverhampton Wanderers are reportedly among several clubs interested in signing Sunderland right-back Trai Hume this summer.
Wolves are preparing for the possible exit of captain Nelson Semedo as he’s yet to sign a new contract and have listed Hume as a target. The Old Gold have offered Semedo generous terms and a four-year deal but the Portuguese, who has already filmed a farewell video in case he decides to leave, is yet to make his thoughts known.
Sky Sports News reports Wolves, Everton and a number of La Liga clubs hold a strong interest in signing Hume. Approaches could follow as a result but Sunderland hold the cards as their number 32’s contract doesn’t expire for another two years, plus there’s the club option to extend that by a further 12 months.
Hume played a pivotal role in Sunderland’s recent promotion to the Premier League as he started 43 of a possible 46 matches during the regular Championship campaign and then played the full 90 minutes in all three play-off fixtures. The 23-year-old was also productive in the final third as he scored three goals and provided six assists last term.
It awaits to be seen how much Sunderland would have to be offered to be tempted to sell Hume but reports in the winter suggested the Black Cats were looking for upwards of £20 million. The player’s stock has risen since then, though, and there’s more on the line now that Sunderland are back in the top flight.
Wolves are unlikely to make a move for Hume until Semedo’s future has been decided, so Everton could have a window of opportunity. The same can be said for the unnamed La Liga clubs interested in acquiring the 19-time Northern Ireland international’s services.
Semedo has until June 30 to make his decision as that’s when his contract expires. An offer is on the table from Galatasaray and there are several other teams across Europe’s top leagues monitoring his situation. Manchester United, meanwhile, have been credited with an interest.
How could Trai Hume fit in at Wolves?
Predominantly a right-back but also capable of playing as a left full-back or as a centre-half, Hume could be a clever signing. Wolves would likely utilise him in Semedo’s right wing-back position if the captain does end up leaving but he could also fill in at right centre-half, where Matt Doherty has been playing for the past few months.
That flexibility could be key as promising Brazilian right-back Pedro Lima is expected to see an uptick in game time next season. Due to his versatility, Hume wouldn’t have to step aside entirely to allow Lima into the starting lineup. It’s an exciting prospect.
Although Wolves would miss Semedo and his leadership, Hume could be a terrific replacement as he’s strong, loves a tackle and is effective in building up play from the back. Getting promoted from the Championship via the play-offs took immense grit and determination from the Sunderland squad and Hume encapsulated those qualities.
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