As per one of the latest reports by the Express, Wolverhampton Wanderers are keen to lure Stoke City goalkeeper, Jack Butland, to the Molineux Stadium in the summer. Nuno Espirito Santo’s camp is all set to splash £35million for acquiring the services of Butland. Apart from Wolves, Liverpool are also monitoring him very closely.
Butland has carved a decent season for himself in the Premier League this campaign despite the stuttering run of form that the Potters have gone through. Stoke City have been really timorous at the back but the 25-year-old has garnered 5 clean sheets from 32 games in the top flight so far this campaign, making 3.31 saves per game on an average, and has once again earned positive reviews.
Stoke City are placed at the 19th spot in the league standings with 30 points to their name after 36 outings. Relegation looks highly likely this season which will be a massive blow to the club who, just a year ago, were aiming for a European spot. With his current employers in deep trouble in the quest for survival in the Premier League, Butland might seek an exit from the bet365 Stadium to keep plying his trade in the Premier League.
A move to the ranks of the Wolves should appeal to him. Under the tutelage of Espirito Santo, they clinched a promotion to the top flight and did it in the grandest possible manner as they are confirmed to lift the Championship silverware as well. However, they need to beef their arsenal once the summer transfer window opens and it would make a lot of sense if they land Butland.
His experience of the Premier League would be a handy asset for the Wolves if the move actually materializes. He is a fine shot-stopper and is well-equipped to come up with stunning saves on a regular basis. He is good at dealing with shots from close quarters as well as long range and distributes the ball in a shrewd manner.
John Ruddy has catered to Wolves’ goalkeeping needs in a meticulous manner in the English second division as he has collected 23 clean sheets from 44 appearances this season and has made 1.89 saves per game on an average. He has been superb between the sticks for Espirito Santo’s side but by bringing someone like Butland, the Portuguese gaffer would be able to introduce genuinely good competition for a place in the starting line-up.
Statistics Credits: Squawka