Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Yerson Mosquera has revealed that he would like to sign for Villarreal on a permanent basis.
When Wolves signed the centre-back in 2021, they beat off a range of big clubs to secure his signature, with the hope being he would develop into a key man.
However, a significant hamstring injury suffered against Tottenham Hotspur in the EFL Cup on his debut has currently led to him never representing Wolves again.
Over the past 14 months, though, Mosquera has enhanced his reputation, starring for FC Cincinnati in MLS before making the loan switch to Villarreal in January.
Moving to La Liga was a big step up in class for the 22-year-old, yet he has proven to be a shrewd addition, already making seven starts and three substitute outings in all competitions.
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What has Mosquera had to say?
Having been provided with regular action by head coach Marcelino Garcia Toral and being warmly received by the club's fanbase, it appears that the Colombia international is now eager to remain with the Yellow Submarine in the long term.
Speaking to SuperDeporte, Mosquera said: "I don't close the doors to continuing, to be honest. I am very clear about what I want.
"I have told many people, the clubs too, I am very comfortable here, the people have received me very well, the club too, and if the opportunity arises to come here, I will be delighted to come.
"They have opened the doors for me here and this is a very special club that gives you all the conditions to grow."
He added: "Honestly, I would like to stay, I have no problem saying it, I have expressed it to the club (Villarreal), in England (Wolves).
"I have also told them that my intention is to have the opportunity to stay. But this is football and nobody knows what will happen. It may or may not happen."
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How may Wolves react?
In theory, Mosquera appears to be developing into a ready-made addition to Gary O'Neil's squad for 2024-25, providing Wolves with a fifth central-defensive option or a potential replacement for Max Kilman.
However, it is also no secret that Wolves have work to do if they want to safeguard their position with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability regulations.
Wolves paid in the region of £4.5m to sign Mosquera nearly three years ago and his valuation is on the rise due to his performances at Estadio de la Ceramica.
While some supporters would be disappointed if Wolves cashed in on a player who was linked with bigger clubs than themselves in the past, club officials will not necessarily view Mosquera's comments as a negative if they can make a substantial profit.
Much could depend on whether Villarreal qualify for Europe. As it stands, Marcelino's side are six points adrift of seventh spot in the La Liga table, and may require that financial boost to meet Wolves' valuation for a player who has a contract at Molineux until 2026.
