Wolves have taken their first step in the January transfer window with the acquisition of Emmanuel Agbadou, a center-back who arrives on a four-and-a-half-year deal with the option to extend for another year. This move addresses a key area of concern for Wolves, whose defensive struggles this season have been well-documented. Fans will be hoping that Agbadou can make an immediate impact, potentially as early as this weekend when Wolves face Bristol City in the FA Cup.
Agbadou’s signing is seen as a positive move by Wolves supporters, who have long awaited reinforcements in the defensive department. The Ivorian center-back, known for his physical presence and composure on the ball, could offer manager Julen Lopetegui a reliable option at the back. With Wolves aiming to improve their league position and progress in the FA Cup, Agbadou’s arrival could be the boost they need to steady the ship and compete on multiple fronts.
The FA Cup clash with Bristol City is also an opportunity for Wolves to evaluate fringe players who have struggled for game time this season. One such player is Luke Cundle, a talented midfielder who has found himself in limbo at Molineux. Despite his evident potential, Cundle has been limited to appearances for the U21s, a level at which he is now clearly above.
Swansea City have emerged as a potential destination for Cundle in the January window. According to reports from Wales Online, the Swans are considering a move to bring Cundle back to the Liberty Stadium, where he previously spent the 2022/23 season on loan. During that spell, Cundle gained valuable Championship experience and showcased his ability to influence games at senior level. Since then, he has had further loan spells at Stoke City and Plymouth Argyle, clocking up 72 Championship appearances in total.
While Swansea’s interest is promising, it’s worth noting that Cundle is just one name on a lengthy shortlist of targets for the Welsh club. Other midfielders, including Noel Milleskog of IK Sirius and Abdulmalik Al-Jaber of FK Željezničar, are also under consideration. However, given Cundle’s familiarity with Swansea and his proven track record in the Championship, he could be an appealing option for the Swans as they look to strengthen their midfield in the second half of the season.
For Wolves, facilitating a loan move for Cundle is crucial. At 21 years old, he needs regular senior football to continue his development, something he is unlikely to receive at Molineux under the current circumstances. Despite Stoke City expressing interest in the summer, no move materialized, leaving Cundle in a frustrating position where his potential is not being fully utilized.
A loan spell at Swansea or another Championship club like Stoke City could provide Cundle with the platform to grow and prove his worth. Wolves, in turn, would benefit from having a more experienced and confident player return to the squad or from the opportunity to secure a permanent transfer that aligns with his development.
There is, however, a slim possibility that Cundle could see some minutes for Wolves in the upcoming FA Cup tie against Bristol City. With manager Julen Lopetegui likely to rotate his squad, this game could offer Cundle a rare chance to showcase his abilities in a Wolves shirt. Nevertheless, regular first-team opportunities in the league remain unlikely, given the competition for places in midfield.
The situation could change if Mario Lemina, who has been linked with an exit from Wolves, leaves during this transfer window. However, Wolves would likely move quickly to sign a replacement midfielder, meaning Cundle’s pathway to consistent first-team action would remain obstructed.
Ultimately, Wolves must carefully manage both Agbadou’s integration into the squad and Cundle’s development. Agbadou’s arrival strengthens the immediate defensive setup, while a loan move for Cundle would allow the young midfielder to gain vital experience. These moves reflect the club’s broader strategy to balance short-term improvements with long-term player development as Wolves navigate a critical phase of the season.