Hwang Hee-chan’s future at Wolves has become a significant talking point as the January transfer window approaches. Despite being one of Wolves’ standout performers last season with an impressive tally of 13 goals across all competitions, the South Korean international has struggled to replicate that form in the 2024/25 campaign. With just two goals to his name so far this term, his performances have been inconsistent, leaving fans and pundits questioning his role in the team moving forward.

After showing glimpses of resurgence with goals against Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur earlier in the season, Hwang’s form dipped again, with lackluster displays against Nottingham Forest and Bristol City. This inconsistency has frustrated sections of the Wolves fanbase, with some even calling for manager Vitor Pereira to offload the forward following the team’s recent win at Ashton Gate. In that match, Hwang’s defensive error gave away the free-kick that allowed Bristol City to score just before halftime, shifting the momentum of a game Wolves had been comfortably leading 2-0.

Despite these struggles, sources close to Wolves suggest that the club is keen to retain Hwang during the January transfer window. Wolves view him as an important squad player, even if he has lost his regular starter status this season. The club’s caution stems from their experience last season when injuries to key forwards like Hwang, Matheus Cunha, and Pedro Neto derailed their campaign, ultimately resulting in a disappointing 14th-place finish in the Premier League. Wolves are determined to avoid a repeat of that scenario and are reluctant to weaken their squad depth mid-season.

While there is legitimate interest in Hwang from other clubs, including West Ham, Wolves are unwilling to part ways with the forward unless they secure a suitable replacement. West Ham, who recently parted ways with former Wolves manager Julen Lopetegui, reportedly have Hwang on their list of potential targets, but they are also exploring other options. Meanwhile, speculation about Marseille renewing their interest in Hwang persists, given their bid to sign him last summer. However, Wolves’ current stance is to hold on to the player, recognizing that losing him in January could leave them vulnerable during the second half of the season.

For Hwang, the focus must now shift to rediscovering his confidence and improving his performances if he wants to regain his place as a regular in the starting XI. Manager Vitor Pereira has shown faith in Hwang’s abilities but has made it clear that the forward needs to contribute more on the pitch. Hwang’s eagerness to make an impact has sometimes backfired, as seen in the Bristol City game, where his mistake cost the team a crucial goal. These lapses highlight the mental and tactical challenges he is currently facing.

Some have speculated that the events of the past summer, particularly Marseille’s failed bid, may have affected Hwang’s focus and confidence. It’s not uncommon for players to be unsettled by transfer rumors, especially when a high-profile move fails to materialize. If Marseille or other suitors reignite their interest, it could potentially complicate matters further for Wolves and Hwang.

For now, Wolves appear committed to helping Hwang rediscover his best form and contribute meaningfully to the team’s ambitions this season. Retaining him seems like a sensible decision given the lessons of last year, but the pressure is on Hwang to step up and justify the club’s faith in him. The coming weeks will be crucial, not only for Hwang’s role at Wolves but also for his long-term future in the Premier League. Whether he can rise to the challenge and prove his critics wrong remains to be seen, but his next few performances could define his trajectory for the rest of the season.