Wolves are currently enjoying one of their best runs of form in recent years, with their impressive six-game winning streak in the Premier League setting the stage for what could be a very positive end to the season. This most recent victory, a commanding 3-0 win over Leicester City at Molineux, was a statement of their growing strength and cohesion as a team. The victory was particularly notable for the standout performance of Matheus Cunha, who contributed significantly by scoring once and assisting on two goals—one for Jorgen Strand Larsen and another for Rodrigo Gomes. Cunha’s involvement in the game was the latest example of his increasing importance to the team, but it also adds fuel to the growing speculation that he could be on his way to Manchester United come the summer transfer window.

However, Cunha is far from the only player whose future at Wolves is up for discussion. Another key figure whose future is uncertain is 23-year-old left wing-back Rayan Ait-Nouri. Ait-Nouri has emerged as one of the club’s most important and dynamic players this season, contributing both defensively and in attack. He made a crucial assist in the win over Leicester, bringing his total goal contributions for the season to 11, the highest of any Premier League defender. This impressive tally has certainly caught the attention of many, and rumors are swirling that the talented Algerian could be moving on from Wolves this summer, despite having spent five years at the club since his arrival from Angers in 2020.

The idea of Ait-Nouri leaving Wolves has been further fueled by the comments of former Premier League striker and current pundit Troy Deeney. Deeney, who has been very vocal in his analysis of players across the league, recently praised Ait-Nouri for his performances and suggested that the young defender is playing with the intention of securing a move to a bigger club. Deeney pointed out that Ait-Nouri looks focused and highly motivated, with his recent displays showing a player who is eager to make an impact not just for Wolves, but to put himself in the shop window ahead of the summer transfer window.

Ait-Nouri’s performances have been a key reason behind Wolves’ recent resurgence in form. His ability to surge up the left flank and provide valuable contributions in the final third has given the team an added dimension. He is not just a defensive option but also a key creative outlet, capable of delivering dangerous crosses, cutting inside, and linking up play in the final third. His assist against Leicester, in which he demonstrated both vision and precision, was a perfect example of the kind of creativity he brings to the team. Given his impressive numbers this season, it’s clear that Ait-Nouri has firmly established himself as one of the most well-rounded wing-backs in the Premier League, which makes him a very attractive prospect for other top clubs looking to bolster their defensive ranks.

While it may be painful for Wolves fans to consider the prospect of losing such a talented and influential player, the reality of modern football is that many players will eventually outgrow clubs, especially those with big ambitions like Ait-Nouri. Deeney’s comments highlight the fact that Ait-Nouri is playing with the kind of hunger and desire that suggests he has his sights set on a move to a bigger club. His impressive goal contributions this season have certainly put him on the radar of scouts and managers from clubs across Europe, and with his contract running down, it’s likely that Wolves will face a difficult decision come the summer.

Interestingly, Wolves may already have a potential replacement lined up in the form of Hugo Bueno, who has been on loan at Feyenoord this season. Bueno, a product of Wolves’ academy, has enjoyed a successful spell in the Netherlands, impressing both domestically and in the Champions League. His performances have been closely monitored by the Wolves coaching staff, and there is growing speculation that he could return to Molineux next season as Ait-Nouri’s replacement. The 21-year-old has shown great promise, and his time at Feyenoord has provided him with invaluable experience in high-pressure matches. The idea of Bueno stepping up to fill Ait-Nouri’s boots is certainly appealing, as it would allow Wolves to integrate a homegrown talent into their first team while also saving money to invest in other areas of the squad.

If Ait-Nouri does indeed leave, Wolves would face the challenge of replacing his attacking threat and creativity from left-back. Ait-Nouri’s ability to overlap with the left winger and provide key assists from wide positions has been one of the most valuable aspects of Wolves’ attacking play this season. While Bueno’s talent is undeniable, it remains to be seen whether he can replicate Ait-Nouri’s form at such a crucial time in Wolves’ development. The departure of Ait-Nouri could also have broader implications for Wolves’ tactical setup, as they may need to adjust their system to accommodate a new player or a shift in playing style.

Beyond replacing Ait-Nouri, Wolves are likely to have more work to do in the transfer market. Despite their recent success, it’s clear that the team still needs strengthening, particularly in the forward positions. Wolves have shown great resilience this season, but their attacking play could benefit from new additions who can add more depth and variety to the frontline. A new forward or two could help ensure that Wolves remain competitive at the top end of the Premier League and possibly push for European qualification in the coming seasons. Additionally, there are questions surrounding the goalkeeper position, with some fans calling for a new shot-stopper to replace current options. The sale of Ait-Nouri could free up funds to address these needs, making the summer transfer window a crucial one for Wolves.

It’s also worth considering the broader implications of Ait-Nouri’s potential departure for the club’s ambitions. Losing a player of his caliber would undoubtedly be a setback, but it could also signal a new era for Wolves—one where they look to develop younger talents like Bueno and build a more sustainable team model for the future. If Wolves are able to reinvest the money from Ait-Nouri’s sale wisely, it could help them strengthen in other key areas and position themselves as a more competitive force in the Premier League.

For Wolves fans, the idea of losing Ait-Nouri will undoubtedly be a difficult pill to swallow. He has been one of the most exciting and consistent players at the club in recent seasons, and his departure could leave a significant void. However, the club’s proactive approach in identifying potential replacements like Bueno suggests that they are preparing for life without Ait-Nouri, should he move on. Whether or not Bueno can step up to the challenge remains to be seen, but the opportunity for him to do so, paired with smart investments in other areas, could allow Wolves to continue their upward trajectory.

As we head into the summer, Wolves will face a defining moment. Will they be able to hold onto Ait-Nouri, or will the temptation of a big-money move be too much for the talented defender to resist? If Ait-Nouri does leave, will Wolves be able to replace him with someone who can offer similar contributions? And how will they use the funds generated by his sale to continue building a team capable of competing at the highest level? Only time will tell, but for now, Wolves fans will be hoping that the club can keep their star players and continue their progress in the Premier League.