The latest transfer news as Wolves target a new goalkeeper and Sunderland wait in the wings.
Wolverhampton Wanderers have reportedly joined the race to sign Sparta Prague goalkeeper Joeri Heerkens this summer.
The Old Gold, likely to sell at least one of Sam Johnstone and Daniel Bentley this summer, are determined to improve the quality in their goalkeeping ranks. Vitor Pereira has made it clear that Jose Sa is his first-choice shot-stopper but that doesn’t mean Wolves can’t upgrade their options.
With that in mind, Czech publication has reported that Wolves are keeping close tabs on Heerkens. Wanderers are one of several clubs interested in signing the 19-year-old, who was recently a standout player as the Netherlands won the UEFA European U19 Championships in Romania.
The competition for Heerkens’ signature is fierce as Dutch giants Ajax Amsterdam and up-and-coming Serie A hotshots Como are among those keen. Ajax are advancing their interest, too, with a five-year contract reportedly already on the table according to De Telegraaf. Wolves will have to hurry if they are to sign Heerkens instead.
Sunderland boosted by Wolves’ goalkeeper pursuit
If Wanderers do end up signing Heerkens, or any other goalkeeper for that matter, Sunderland could benefit as they are interested in signing Johnstone. Wolves bringing in a new ‘keeper would make it easier for Johnstone, who cost £10 million to sign from Crystal Palace last summer, to leave the club.
Sunderland, eager to sign a competitor for current number one Anthony Patterson, are reportedly eyeing a loan move for Johnstone. Other shot-stoppers, including Chelsea’s Djordje Petrovic, have also been linked.
Goalkeeping coach Neil Cutler is said to be heavily involved in the Black Cats’ interest as the former Wolves man, who recently moved to Sunderland to work under Regis Le Bris, has worked with Johnstone twice before. Cutler coached the shot-stopper at both Aston Villa and Wolves and was seriously impressed with his work. A reunion could now be on the cards on Wearside.
Nelson Semedo situation still unresolved
In other Wolves news, captain Nelson Semedo is now officially out of contract but his future is still uncertain. Birmingham World understands Wanderers have offered the right-back a generous four-year deal that he’s still yet to turn down or accept.
As it stands, it seems more likely that Semedo will leave than stay as there’s widespread interest across Europe, including from Turkey, Spain and his homeland, Portugal. It’s understood that Semedo has filmed a farewell video on the Molineux pitch in preparation for a potential departure, but nothing is final at this moment.
It would be a significant blow for Wolves if Semedo were to leave as he’s not only a key leader in the dressing room, but also one of the most established right-backs in the Premier League. Recently a UEFA Nations League winner with Portugal for a second time, the 31-year-old is heading towards the end of his prime years and may not have many more opportunities to leave for a bigger club.
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