How Wolves’ dream £193m starting XI of instant European qualification challengers could look next season

Wolves endured a season of two halves in 2022/23. A sluggish start under Bruno Lage gave way to a more optimistic hue upon the arrival of Julen Lopetegui, and while their 13th-placed finish might have been regarded as a failure at the beginning of the campaign, it felt reassuringly comfortable in the end after more than one dalliance with the relegation zone.

The big question now is how do Wanderers look to regroup and rebuild ahead of the new campaign? With the transfer window set to open shortly, and with several issues that need addressing, we’ve taken a look at how Wolves’ £193 million - based on current market values - line-up could look on the opening day.

Jose Sa

Sa has endured a slightly trickier second campaign at Molineux following a stellar debut term in which he was named both Supporters’ and Players’ Player of the Season. Still, he is an important member of this Wolves side, and should be around for a while to come.

Ridle Baku

A potential new addition for Wolves, with Nelson Semedo’s future uncertain. The versatile full-back - also capable of playing out on the wing - has been linked with Wanderers already this summer, according to reports in Germany. Baku is a four-cap Germany international, and is currently on the books at Wolfsburg, where he has made eight goal contributions in 2022/23.

Craig Dawson

A real bargain at the heart of defence, the experienced defender has proven himself to be an astute addition ever since he signed from West Ham for £3.3 million in the January transfer window. Expect him to continue in his role next season.

Max Kilman

Often handed the captain’s armband in Ruben Neves’ absence, Kilman could prove to be one player that Wolves have to fight to keep hold of this summer amid reported interest from Tottenham. If they can retain his services, however, the Midlands club will lay claim to a talent who will be hoping to catch the eye of England manager Gareth Southgate in the coming months.

Ryan Giles

With Rayan Ait-Nouri out of favour and Toti Gomes technically playing out of position, Wolves could be in the market for a new left-back this summer - or rather, it could be time for a player who is already on their books to step up. Ryan Giles has been garnering huge praise during his loan stint with Middlesbrough in the Championship, and only Sunderland’s Jack Clarke registered more assists in the second tier this season. Given the current situation at Molineux, next term could be his time to shine.

Mario Lemina

A superb addition since arriving from OGC Nice in January, Lemina has played a key part in Julen Lopetegui’s steadying of the ship in Wolverhampton. His high-energy performances in the centre of the park make him a vital cog in this Wanderers machine, and he will very much be part of his manager’s plans heading into the new campaign.

Matheus Nunes

Ruben Neves’ departure seemingly grows more imminent by the day, and in his looming absence, Nunes will surely be expected to step up to the plate. Interest from Liverpool will be a concern, but assuming Wolves can fend the Reds off, 2023/24 could be the season in which the 24-year-old really comes into his own.

Matheus Cunha

When his £43 million obligation-to-buy clause is officially activated, Cunha will become Wolves’ record signing, and big things will be expected of him. Capable of playing up front or out wide, there is a strong argument to be made for the Brazilian’s most effective position being in the hole just behind the striker. Don’t be surprised to see Lopetegui deploy him there more than anywhere else - although a greater goal return would be appreciated by the Molineux faithful.

Abde Ezzalzouli

Another potential new signing, Ezzalzouli is a Barcelona prospect who is also garnering a fair amount of attention from Atletico Madrid. His association with agent Jorge Mendes could prove advantageous for Wolves, however, and reports in Spain continue to tout a £17.5 million move.

Pedro Neto

On his day, Neto is a sublime attacking talent, but a cruel run of injuries has meant that it has not been his day too often of late. Still only 23, if he can regain some of his signature flair and sharpness over the course of preseason, he can play a huge role for Wolves next season.

Viktor Gyokeres

A hustling, bustling brute of a centre forward, Gyokeres has been ripping up trees for Coventry City in the Championship, and looks destined for a Premier League move this summer. If reports are to be believed, then Wolves are leading the chase to sign him, and if all went well, would provide the kind of lethal attacking focal point that Wanderers have been so sorely missing at times in recent months.