Wolves named as ‘most likely destination’ for midfielder – Still need to bid for him

Portuguese side Sporting returned to training on Wednesday, and midfielder João Palhinha was among the new players in the squad.

The midfielder spent the last two years on loan at Braga, and despite being back in Lisbon now, there’s a chance he could move out again soon.

Several newspapers report his return today, and most of them mention two clubs who want to sign Palhinha this summer: CSKA and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The Russian side reportedly offered €12m for his transfer, while Sporting continue to demand €15m. Meanwhile, the player waits for an offer from the Premier League club.

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A Bola is one of those commenting on the case. They say Wolves ‘lead’ the list of interested clubs in the Premier League, and while CKSA can’t reach a deal with Sporting, the Molineux side could meddle in the negotiations.

Newspaper Record says Palhinha has ‘never hidden’ his ambition to play in the Premier League, where Wolves continue to be ‘the most likely destination’. However, the English club haven’t made a bid so far.

O Jogo is another one mentioning this saga, saying Wolves have been ‘one step’ from signing the midfielder, but the deal was ‘frozen’.

There’s a chance Wolves are being used here to pressure CSKA, because if you were a Portuguese club wanting to suggest an English side as competition, Nuno’s club are the likeliest target.