Wolves are reportedly exploring the idea of signing Renato Sanches from Lille in the January transfer window.
According to Calciomercato, Wolves are prepared to explore the chance to sign Renato Sanches in the next window, although things could get tricky with Lille’s demands for the midfielder. Additionally, other big clubs are vying for his signature, making the chase all the more interesting.
Renato Sanches broke out on the international scene when he starred for Portugal during their triumphant Euro 2016 campaign. His performances in the national side then attracted plenty of interest from some of the top clubs across Europe, after which Bayern Munich managed to lure him from Benfica in a big move.
He never looked the part in Bavaria and after a period of struggle, he had an underwhelming loan move to Swansea. Following that, he moved permanently to LOSC Lille in a deal worth £18 million in 2019.
At the French side, he has looked rejuvenated, and his performances helped Lille topple PSG to win the Ligue 1 title last season. Heading into the summer window earlier this year, many sides, including Liverpool, showed tremendous interest in signing him, but Lille were adamant over their demands and eventually kept him at the club.
However, Sanches’ contract ends in the summer of 2023. There have been no indications of an extension as of yet, meaning Lille might have to cash in on the Portugal international in January or next summer. There could be movement in the winter window, with some clubs exploring the idea of signing him.
Wolves are reportedly in the race for his signature as new manager Bruno Lage is keen on the midfielder. Sanches would certainly be an upgrade on ageing international teammate Joao Moutinho at the Molineux.
Signing Sanches will be considered a major coup especially given that the likes of Barcelona are keeping tabs on the Portuguese. There is a consistency in his game that was never visible during his spells at Bayern and Swansea. At 24 years of age, the midfielder has plenty to offer in the long term future wherever he decides to play.
Wolves are hoping to exploit his contractual situation to bring his price tag down, ahead of a potential January swoop. Lille would certainly want to rake in as much cash as possible for their prized asset, although the French side might be forced to settle for a discounted price.
It remains to be seen how much Lille might realistically demand and settle for the midfielder. However, with interest expected to mount if Sanches is made available for a transfer in January, Lille might end up benefiting from a possible bidding war among some of the top clubs across England and Europe.
