Wolverhampton Wanderers 'closing in on Atletico Madrid's Felipe'

Wolverhampton Wanderers are allegedly closing in on the signing of Atletico Madrid defender Felipe.

Since the arrival of Julen Lopetegui, Wolves have been heavily linked with a wide array of players, many of which represent bigger clubs in Europe.

The West Midlands outfit have already completed the loan addition of Atletico forward Matheus Cunha, who will move to Molineux on a permanent basis should a number of clauses be activated over the coming months.

Wolves are also seemingly in line to eventually get a deal over the line for Nice midfielder Mario Lemina, a former player of Southampton and Fulham.

However, Lopetegui is particularly keen to strengthen his options in the middle of his defence with Nathan Collins, Max Kilman and Toti Gomes the only three senior choices at his disposal.

© Reuters

Although Wolves are said to be keen to negotiate a deal for West Ham United's Craig Dawson, alternatives are being considered with the Hammers currently direct rivals in the battle for survival in the Premier League.

According to Reuters, Wolves wish to conclude a transfer for out-of-favour Atletico defender Felipe.

Before the start of the January transfer window, Lopetegui publicly acknowledged that he held an interest in the former Brazil international.

That is despite the 33-year-old now being no more than a fringe member of the squad at Wanda Metropolitano, with just one outing being made since the middle of September.

© Reuters

One of his three appearances during 2022-23 came against Real Madrid, where he completed the full 90 minutes as Atletico lost by a 2-1 scoreline.

The report suggests that personal terms have already been agreed between the relevant parties, leaving Wolves to finalise a fee with Atletico.

With Felipe having less than six months remaining on his contract and the La Liga outfit in the process of balancing their books, that is unlikely to be an issue.

Atletico are also said to be keen to sign Leicester City's Caglar Soyuncu as soon as possible, with the exit of Felipe only aiding their efforts in that regard.