Wolverhampton Wanderers could be poised to sign a new centre-back…

What’s the word?

According to French publication Foot Mercato, via Sport Witness, the Old Gold are set to battle with Sevilla for Alexander Djiku.

With Willy Boly and Leander Dendoncker both having already exited or departing the club, Bruno Lage has been left looking for added cover in defence.

Southampton were another Premier League side who had pushed to sign him in the past.

Boly replacement

With Boly now outbound, it can be said that the Ivorian had drastically declined in recent years.

Just 10 Premier League appearances last season for the 31-year-old was indicative of a player whose time on Molineux was seemingly up.

Swapping him out for Djiku, a 28-year-old entering his prime years, marks a shrewd piece of transfer business that could see an instant upturn in form for a faltering Wolves side.

Last season for Strasbourg he was an incredibly forward-thinking centre-back, sitting in the top 3% for progressive passes across Europe's top five leagues in his position.

His defensive numbers are also impressive, but it is clear that it is the offensive aspects that make him a standout defender. He ranked in the top 16% for tackles and top 17% for interceptions. He can at times be something of a defensive machine.

The £14k-per-week star has been so impressive that he was recently crowned Ghana footballer of the year, a prestigious accolade that outlines his influence and how common knowledge his outstanding ability should be.

Perhaps a move to the Premier League to replace Boly could finally see his talents recognised.

Boly excelled with his tackling, as he ranked in the top 6% for centre-backs, however, this alone cannot compete with the abilities that Djiku can offer.

In the modern game, for a centre-back it has become equally as important to be good with the ball at your feet as it is to be a great defender. This signing marks a shift in focus for Lage and a vast improvement for the style of play he desires.