Wolverhampton Wanderers Sign 24 Y/O Spanish Defensive Ace: Just What Nuno Needed?

In an exciting move, Jonny Castro has joined Wolverhampton Wanderers from Atletico Madrid on a season-long loan. The move was confirmed via the club’s official Twitter page.

Castro moved to Atletico Madrid earlier this week from Celta Vigo for a reported transfer fee of £6million but he has been loaned out immediately to the Molineux Stadium.

Wolves were remarkable in the Championship last season under the tutelage of Nuno Espirito Santo. They clinched the English second division silverware and impliedly, got an automatic promotion to the Premier League. The Wolves have not shied away from spending money and their business this summer points towards the management’s desire to achieve more than just survival in the top-flight. They signed Joao Moutinho from Monaco for £5million which was certainly a high-profile and galvanizing signing for the English top flight’s newcomers.

Prior to Moutinho’s entry to the West Midlands outfit, the likes of Diogo Jota, Willy Boly, Rui Patricio and Leo Bonatini had already been inducted into their side this summer. There is no denying that the Portuguese manager is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that he has the right personnel under his command take on the challenges of the Premier League head on.

Castro emerged through the youth ranks of Celta Vigo and after his commendable displays for their B team, he was elevated to their senior side. He has been with them since 2013 and has accumulated extensive experience of La Liga. Besides, he has also represented Spain’s Under-18, Under-19, Under-20 and Under-21 sides on a regular basis. He had a solid 2017-18 campaign despite the fact that the Sky Blues finished at the 13th spot.

In 36 Spanish top-flight appearances last season, the 24-year-old scored 2 goals and registered 1 assist. Moreover, he garnered 2.8 tackles, 2.6 interceptions. 2 clearances and 0.2 blocks per game on an average. Capable of playing as a centre-back, full-back as well as a wing-back, versatility is unarguably one of his strongest suits.

Although he lacks the experience of English football, the ingredients that he possesses should enable him to settle down quickly. He could provide ideal competition to Barry Douglas and Matt Doherty for the full-back role as well as to the likes of Ryan Bennett, Conor Coady and Boly. Having plied his trade in 222 games across all competitions for Celta Vigo, he has certainly proven his mettle in Spain and it would be intriguing to see his development and impact over the course of the season.

Statistics Credits: WhoScored