Wolves have a tough season ahead of them, which begins earlier than most other Premier League teams. They have to take part in the qualifying round of the Europa League later this month.
Before that, they will have two pre-season games, both in China. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo will want to build on the seventh-place finish that they achieved last year, and maybe go even higher next season.
However, for them to achieve that, they will have to bring in a few players, especially in the forward department where Raúl Jiménez needs some competition.
The club have now been linked with Hoffenheim striker Joelinton, who is also a target for fellow Premier League side, Newcastle United.
Chronicle Live have reported that the German club want around £40 million for the 22-year-old who joined Hoffenheim in 2015.
The striker scored 11 times and managed 9 assists in all competitions last season for Hoffenheim in the German Bundesliga. The Brazilian was on loan to Rapid Wien in Austria for two seasons and had his first proper season with Hoffenheim in last year.
What will Joelinton add to Wolves?
The young Brazilian striker is a fast, skilful and strong striker, who has the ability to dribble with pace, and is also a good passer of the ball.
The 22-year-old can play as an out-and-out striker, and also in a withdrawn role or out wide on the wings.
Joelinton made an average of 3 dribbles per game in the Bundesliga last year (1.7 successful dribbles on average), and 24.7 average passes a game. The 6’1″ striker is also reasonably good in the air, competing in 5.8 aerial duels on average last season.
A player with good work rate, he averaged 2 attempted tackles per game, contributing defensively to the team, something that will sync in well with Espirito Santo’s tactics.
Wolves will need a strong squad in the 2019-20 season as they compete in the Europa League, apart from the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup, and will need more players in attack to compete with Raúl Jiménez and Diogo Jota, in attack.
Joelinton could be a very good signing for the Premier League side as he is young, has loads of energy, and is a player that will suit Espírito Santo’s style of play.
Stats via Whoscored
