Wolverhampton Wanderers have reportedly turned down the chance to sign Jason Denayer on a free transfer which could prove to be Bruno Lage's biggest mistake as manager.

What's the word?

Wolves have been linked with signing the Belgium international in recent weeks, with the centre-back available on a free transfer after leaving Olympique Lyon at the end of last season.

Lage lost Romain Saiss, Willy Boly and Conor Coady during the summer but brought in just Nathan Collins as a replacement, which has left the Old Gold looking short of centre-back options.

After a deal for Craig Dawson fell through on deadline day, it seemed as if Denayer would be the best option for Lage, as he has Premier League and Champions League experience, and could obviously be signed after the deadline as a free-agent.

However, Express and Star journalist Liam Keen has now provided an update on Wolves' pursuit of Denayer on Twitter.

He said:

"Wolves have moved on from looking at Jason Denayer. Currently no plan to use the free agent market to bring in a centre-back, particularly with the World Cup break fast approaching."

Lage's biggest mistake yet?

Wolves have switched to a four-at-the-back system this season and Lage clearly feels that he can cope with fewer centre-backs in his squad.

While Max Kilman and Collins look as if they will be a formidable duo at the back, having earned three clean sheets in the opening six Premier League games, Wolves could be in real trouble if either of those players were to pick up an injury.

Lage has Yerson Mosquera and Toti available as backups, but neither have any real top-flight experience. Mosquera has just one Wolves appearance to his name in the Carabao Cup, while Toti has only made five appearances for Wolves' senior side.

Considering Wolves' problems in front of goal, with just three goals so far in the Premier League, they are reliant on a strong defence for positive results and losing Kilman or Collins to injury could really derail their season.

Therefore, not signing Denayer feels like a huge risk on Lage's part, and could well be one that he comes to regret later in the season.