Wolverhampton Wanderers have now tabled a contract offer to sign an “excellent” midfielder, and they are looking to beat Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur to his signature, according to a report.
Wolves stepping up summer transfer plans
Wolves are on a remarkable run of form under the helm of Vitor Pereira, winning their last six Premier League games on the spin to move up to 13th in the table, and the manager will be hoping his side can carry the momentum into the 2025-26 campaign.
Before then, however, Pereira will have the opportunity to put his own stamp on the squad, and targets have been picked out in a number of areas in recent days, with Leicester City’s Jamie Vardy recently being named as an option at striker.
Internal talks have also been held over a move for West Bromwich Albion’s Grady Diangana, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer, although it may be difficult to convince the winger to move to the Baggies’ bitter rivals.
Vitor Pereira wants Wolves to sign 22 y/o ace who he's worked with before
He could be a strong addition to Wanderers’ midfield.
1 ByHenry JacksonApr 25, 2025
With speculation building over Matheus Cunha’s future, it may be particularly important for Pereira to strengthen in forward areas this summer, but the Old Gold are also keen on strengthening their options in the middle of the park.
That is according to a report from Spain (via Sport Witness), which states Wolves have now offered to triple Real Betis midfielder Johnny Cardoso’s salary, in a bid to lure the USA international to Molineux this summer.
Tottenham have a deal which allows them to buy Cardoso for €25m (£21m) which he agreed to last summer, but there is now a growing possibility that he leaves for a higher amount, with a €30m – €35m (£25m – £30m) move on the cards.
Interest is growing from within the Premier League, and the Old Gold’s willingness to triple his salary underlines just how highly the 23-year-old is regarded at Molineux.
"Excellent" Cardoso impressing in La Liga
It is little wonder that clubs are now queuing up to sign the Betis star, given that he has put in some impressive performances over the past year, most notably flourishing in a defensive role, although he also ranks relatively highly for non-penalty goals, when compared to other midfielders.
Statistic
Average per 90
Non-penalty goals
0.12 (72nd percentile)
Successful take-ons
0.96 (80th percentile)
Interceptions
2.12 (98th percentile)
Clearances
2.47 (91st percentile)
As such, the American is clearly a well-rounded midfielder, and he has also been praised for his ability to pick out his teammates by scout/writer Ben Mattinson.
It may be difficult for Wolves to compete for Cardoso’s signature, given that Tottenham have the option to sign him, but there is every indication he could be a success at Molineux if they are able to win the race.