Wolves midfielder Joao Moutinho is reportedly close to agreeing to a new deal at Molineux, which will surely delight Bruno Lage.

What's the word?

According to Express and Star journalist Liam Keen:

"Wolves are getting closer to signing Joao Moutinho to a new deal. Talks progressing well and remain positive."

The 35-year-old's contract with the Old Gold is currently set to expire at the end of this month but it seems likely that the Portuguese maestro will be extending his stay with the club, which can only be good news for Wolves considering his performances in recent seasons.

Wolves supporters will be buzzing

Since signing from Monaco in 2018, Moutinho has gone on to make 176 appearances for Wolves, in which he has contributed five goals and 23 assists.

Despite his age, the veteran midfielder was a consistent first-team regular in Lage's side last season, making 39 appearances in all competitions, popping up with two goals and one assist.

This emphasises that Lage still sees him as an important member of the squad, and it is no surprise that Wolves are keen to offer him a new deal, especially if his Portuguese compatriot Ruben Neves completes his likely move away from Molineux.

Danny Murphy was full of praise for Moutinho after he scored in a win against Brentford last season, saying:

"I think he’s missed five games in three and a half years which is some going. That’s durability for you. He’s such an intelligent footballer.

“His goal, what a goal… 35 years of age, to be playing so consistently at that age in the Premier League week in week out, it says a lot about the way he looks after himself. His goal was beautiful, as was his performance.”

Given how important the former Porto man has been for Wolves since their promotion to the top flight, supporters will no doubt be delighted with this update from Keen and will be hoping that Moutinho's new contract is confirmed as soon as possible.

And, in other news... Lage can sign the next Busquets with Wolves bid for “highly gifted” £18m-rated gem