Wolves' hopes of signing David Carmo this summer appear to have been handed a boost, with reports claiming that he could be on his way out of Braga.

What's the word?

In a recent interview with GiveMeSport, journalist Jacque Talbot discussed the defender's future, saying: "I think David Carmo would be an interesting one. He’s picked up a lot of interest there. I have asked about him.

“But basically, he didn’t want any noise and just wanted to concentrate on international football. But now he’s back, I imagine he’ll be making a move away from Braga.”

Wolves have regularly been linked with the Brazilian in recent weeks, with reports suggesting that he has a release clause of £34.3m in his contract.

Lage would love him

Bruno Lage will likely be looking to recruit a reliable left-sided defender this summer after the departure of Morgan Saiss.

The Moroccan has signed for Besiktas after a five-year spell at Molineux in which he featured 206 times, contributing 15 goals and three assists.

If Lage prefers a five-at-the-back formation again next season, then he will surely be looking to sign someone to fill the void left by Saiss, and Carmo certainly seems to have the credentials.

The 22-year-old had limited game-time last term after recovering from a long-term injury but returned in impressive fashion, playing a big part in Braga's Europa League run as he averaged an impressive 7.06 rating from WhoScored for his performances in the tournament.

According to FBRef, Carmo scores very impressively against other centre-backs in Europe for clearances, interceptions and aerial duels won, ranking in the top 18% for each metric, which suggests that he could improve on Wolves' already impressive defensive record from 2021/22. Lage's team conceded just 43 Premier League goals last term, the fewest of any team to finish outside the top four.

The 22-year-old also looks dangerous going forward, scoring in the 99th percentile for non-penalty goals, while he is strong on the ball as well, as illustrated by his excellent rate of assists and shot-creating actions.

Braga manager Carlos Carvalhal was full of praise for the young defender when he made his return to action last season, saying: “He is a fantastic centre-back, one of the best in the country. He gives us a lot defensively, but offensively he is a super player, has speed on the ball, gives speed to our game and finds players near and far with long passes. We need a player like him and we will continue to operate with him in the team.”

Therefore, considering that Wolves' strong season last year was built around a resolute defence, it seems clear that Lage would love to have a player such as Carmo in his team; and with the player reportedly set to leave Braga, the Old Gold appear to have been handed a significant boost in their pursuit of him.

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