Wolverhampton Wanderers wrapped up the January 2025 transfer window with several key signings as they look to bolster their squad under head coach Vítor Pereira. While the club made solid additions in defense and midfield, they fell short of securing an additional attacking option, something that could still be addressed in the summer.
Key Signings in the January Transfer Window
Wolves completed three major signings during the January window:
Nasser Djiga (Defender) – The 22-year-old Burkinabé center-back joined Wolves from Red Star Belgrade on a long-term contract until 2030, with the club paying a reported fee of £10 million. Djiga has been one of the standout young defenders in Serbian football, and Wolves see him as a long-term defensive reinforcement.
Emmanuel Agbadou (Defender) – Wolves also strengthened their backline with the addition of Emmanuel Agbadou, an Ivorian center-back from Reims. The club paid £16.6 million to secure his services. Agbadou is known for his physicality and aerial presence, qualities that Wolves will hope will solidify their defensive unit.
Marshall Munetsi (Midfielder) – Wolves further bolstered their midfield by signing Marshall Munetsi, a Zimbabwean international, from Stade de Reims for £16 million. The 28-year-old is a box-to-box midfielder with defensive attributes, which could help Wolves improve their structure in the middle of the park.
Despite these acquisitions, Wolves were unable to secure the signing of a forward, a key area that Pereira was hoping to strengthen before the deadline.
Wolves’ Attempt to Sign Yuri Alberto
One of Wolves’ most ambitious targets in the window was Brazilian striker Yuri Alberto, who currently plays for Corinthians. Reports from Brazilian outlet R7 Esporte claim that Wolves were one of three Premier League clubs that made a concrete approach for the 23-year-old.
Alberto has been in sensational goal-scoring form in Brazil. Last season, he netted 31 goals in all competitions, proving himself as a lethal finisher. This season, he has already scored three times in nine appearances, further solidifying his reputation.
It is understood that Pereira, who previously worked with Alberto during his time managing Corinthians, was keen to reunite with the forward at Molineux. However, negotiations fell through due to the player’s high asking price. Corinthians demanded €25 million for the striker, and Wolves were unable to match that valuation.
Although the January move didn’t materialize, Yuri Alberto is still eyeing a European transfer, and Inter Milan are currently the frontrunners for his signature. Manager Simone Inzaghi has reportedly requested the club to pursue the striker, leaving Wolves with an uphill battle if they want to reignite their interest in the summer.
How Wolves Addressed Their Attack in the Summer Transfer Window
While Wolves missed out on Alberto, they had already made some attacking reinforcements during the summer 2024 window under then-manager Gary O’Neil. The club brought in:
Jørgen Strand Larsen (Striker, Loan from Celta Vigo) – The Norwegian forward was brought in to add competition in attack. However, he has struggled with consistency and injuries.
Carlos Forbs (Winger, £10m from Ajax) – Forbs has shown flashes of brilliance but hasn’t fully established himself as a key starter yet.
Rodrigo Gomes (Winger/Full-back, £12.7m from Braga) – Though primarily an attacking player, Gomes has often been deployed in a defensive role. Despite that, he has still managed to provide a goal threat.
Despite these signings, Wolves still lack a natural goal-scoring forward who can consistently convert chances. This is why Pereira was keen to bring in an additional striker in January.
Wolves’ Current Premier League Situation
At present, Wolves find themselves in a difficult position in the Premier League, currently sitting 17th in the table. With relegation a serious concern, the club’s recent signings will need to make an immediate impact to help secure their top-flight status.
Wolves have some crucial fixtures ahead, including:
AFC Bournemouth vs. Wolves – February 22, 2025
Wolves vs. Fulham – February 25, 2025
Wolves vs. Everton – March 8, 2025
Southampton vs. Wolves – March 15, 2025
Wolves vs. West Ham – April 1, 2025
These matches could determine whether Wolves remain in the Premier League or find themselves dragged into a relegation battle.
Will Wolves Reignite Interest in Yuri Alberto?
With Wolves’ lack of firepower in attack, their summer transfer business will be crucial. Whether or not they make another approach for Yuri Alberto remains to be seen. If Inter Milan or another top European club swoops in first, Wolves may have to look elsewhere for their goal-scoring solution.
For now, Vítor Pereira will need to rely on his current squad to get Wolves out of trouble. The January window strengthened the team defensively, but the lack of attacking reinforcements could prove costly if they don’t start converting chances in the coming weeks.