Transfer Story
According to a recent report by Birmingham Mail, Wolverhampton Wanderers have been tipped to sign Inter Milan midfielder, Joao Mario, this summer. Mario is expected to leave the ranks of the Serie A outfit and a move to the Molineux Stadium is anticipated. His future is set to be resolved after he played in all of Portugal’s games in the World Cup in Russia.
Fact File
Mario emerged through the youth ranks of Porto and Sporting CP and consequently, he was promoted to the senior side of the latter. In the summer of 2016, Inter Milan made him sign on the dotted line but his career went off the track after his move to Italy. He spent the second half of last season on loan with West Ham United and has acclimatized himself with English football to a decent extent.
Attributes
Versatility is unarguably one of the strongest suits of Mario as he has the capability to ply his trade on either wing, as a central attacking midfielder as well as a central defensive midfielder. He is a good passer of the ball and is a set-piece specialist. Besides, his ability to anticipate the attacking endeavours of the opposition makes him a tough proposition to get past.
The 25-year-old has played at various youth levels of Portugal and has also represented his national side on a regular basis. He has accumulated plenty of experience under his belt and has the exposure of Champions League football too. His loan spell with the Hammers proved to be a productive one and no wonder Wolves are keen to sign him.
How Did He Fare Last Season?
Mario garnered 13 appearances in the Premier League last season, during which he scored 2 goals and registered an assist. Prior to his loan move to the London Stadium, he bagged 3 assists in 14 games in Serie A.
Why Wolves Need Him?
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side clinched the Championship silverware last season and earned an automatic promotion to the Premier League. Now that they have to ply their trade against the elite clubs in the country, they must have quality players in their arsenal.
Although they have made some decent signings in Diogo Jota, Willy Boly and Leo Bonatini, someone like Mario can add a lot of creativity as well as flair in the midfield. A move to the English top flight will be a challenge for Mario and it will be intriguing to see whether the deal crosses the line or not.
Statistics Courtesy: WhoScored
