Wolves are targeting Tottenham Hotspur’s Micky van de Ven as their top priority for the January transfer window as Gary O’Neil looks to strengthen a defence that has struggled throughout the season.
The club has endured a difficult start to the Premier League campaign, conceding a league-high 27 goals, and sees Van de Ven as a potential solution to their defensive frailties. Wolves are expected to make funds available for a new centre-back, whether on a permanent deal or a loan, and believe the Dutchman could provide much-needed stability.
Injuries have compounded Wolves’ defensive issues, with Yerson Mosquera ruled out for the remainder of the season after suffering a serious knee injury in the 3-1 defeat at Aston Villa. Santiago Bueno is also doubtful for this weekend’s match against Fulham, having returned early from international duty with Uruguay due to a minor injury. With only Craig Dawson, Toti Gomes, and teenager Bastien Meupiyou available, Wolves’ options at the back are severely limited.
The failure to sign a replacement after the £40 million sale of Max Kilman to West Ham in the summer has drawn criticism from fans, who feel the club’s strategy left them ill-prepared. Wolves had initially hoped to rely on younger players stepping into senior roles, but Mosquera’s injury has prompted a reassessment of that policy.
Sporting director Matt Hobbs has acknowledged the need for an experienced addition in January. However, the club remains committed to operating within a tight budget and is unlikely to make further signings beyond a centre-back. Hugo Bueno, currently on loan at Feyenoord, cannot be recalled in January, further limiting Wolves’ flexibility.
Micky van de Ven has emerged as a standout target, with his pace, positional awareness, and ball-playing ability fitting the profile Wolves are seeking. The 22-year-old has impressed since joining Spurs from Wolfsburg, but with Tottenham’s own defensive issues, prising him away could prove challenging. Wolves may explore the possibility of a loan deal, hoping Spurs might consider giving Van de Ven more consistent minutes in the second half of the season.
Gary O’Neil’s position remains precarious despite a 2-0 win over Southampton before the international break. With Wolves sitting 19th in the table, the upcoming fixtures could define their season. Matches against Fulham, Bournemouth, Everton, and West Ham—now managed by former Wolves boss Julen Lopetegui—offer opportunities to climb out of the relegation zone.
Van de Ven’s addition could prove pivotal as Wolves face two promoted sides, Ipswich and Leicester, in December. If the club can secure his services, it may mark a turning point in their campaign. For now, O’Neil must continue to navigate a challenging schedule with a threadbare squad, while the Wolves hierarchy works behind the scenes to address their defensive crisis.
