Wolves have reportedly made an enquiry about Lens right-back Jonathan Clauss, and the France international could be a superb addition to Bruno Lage’s squad this summer.
The Evening Standard reported on Friday that Manchester United and Chelsea are interested in signing the 29-year-old, who has exploded onto the scene in Ligue 1 in recent years.
Nizaar Kinsella, who wrote the article, subsequently confirmed on Twitter that Wolves have also enquired about signing the Frenchman.
It is reported that, with Clauss’ contract with Lens set to expire at the end of next season, they will accept offers of just £8m for him, which could represent a huge bargain for Lage as he looks to strengthen his Wolves squad this summer.
Wolves have been very quiet in the transfer window so far this summer. Nathan Collins is so far the only new arrival at the club, while the likes of Romain Saiss and Marcal have departed on permanent deals.
Nelson Semedo was Lage’s first choice at right-back for much of last season but was rather underwhelming, contributing no goals and just one assist in 25 appearances, so Clauss would arguably represent a big upgrade in that area.
The 29-year-old managed five goals and 11 assists in 37 Ligue 1 appearances last term, averaging a superb 7.22 rating from WhoScored for his performances, so he would clearly add a lot of attacking quality at Molineux.
Given that Lage sets up with wing-backs, the France international would have the freedom to go forward and could contribute effectively in attack, which Wolves desperately need after their lack of goals (38) in the top flight last season.
Clauss, who was described as “crazy” by a former team-mate, has been likened to some prominent right-backs – Goal described him as “disciplined, quick, technically sound, and extremely attack-minded like his idol Dani Alves”.
If he were to play anything like the legendary Brazilian in a Wolves shirt, he would quickly become a fan favourite in the Black Country. Considering the Frenchman’s obvious quality and low asking price, Jeff Shi should definitely look at bringing him to Molineux this summer.
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