Wolverhampton Wanderers (Wolves) are clearly in the midst of a significant squad revamp under the guidance of Vitor Pereira. Having taken the first steps by securing Fer Lopez from Celta Vigo to strengthen their attacking options, the club is now focused on addressing more pivotal areas of their team, with particular emphasis on bolstering the midfield. While Wolves have already made strides, they are faced with the daunting challenge of replacing the qualities of Matheus Cunha, who was an instrumental part of the squad in central areas. Cunha’s vision, creativity, and ability to score crucial goals will undoubtedly be missed. The club is targeting players who can bring that same spark and versatility to the midfield, ensuring that their attack remains sharp and dynamic moving forward.
One name that has emerged as a key target for Wolves is Yunus Musah, a player who has already proven his worth at top European clubs. Currently playing for AC Milan in Italy’s Serie A, Musah is a versatile midfielder with a wide range of attributes that make him an ideal fit for Wolves’ tactical setup. Musah’s ability to operate across different roles, whether in central midfield or as a wing-back, would provide the necessary flexibility for Pereira as he looks to implement his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. Wolves are known for their fluid system, and Musah’s adaptability would allow him to slot seamlessly into the side, offering both defensive stability and attacking flair.
Musah’s playing style is an interesting blend of technical ability, athleticism, and intelligence on the ball. He has the capacity to break up opposition attacks while also contributing creatively in advanced areas. His defensive work rate is solid, and he is particularly effective at tracking back and covering wide areas, something that makes him suited for a wing-back role. Musah’s ability to drive forward with the ball and break through midfield lines also makes him a significant threat in transition, allowing Wolves to attack with pace and purpose. His understanding of the game and ability to read situations in both defensive and offensive phases mean he could be an excellent fit for Pereira’s system.
A key factor that makes Musah such an intriguing prospect is his prior experience in English football. Having been part of Arsenal’s esteemed Hale End academy since the age of nine, Musah was immersed in the top-tier coaching methods and the rigorous development environment that the club is renowned for. Arsenal’s academy has produced some of the brightest talents in English football, including Bukayo Saka, and Musah was fortunate to train alongside such players. During his time at Hale End, Musah received an education that placed a heavy emphasis on individual development, with plenty of one-on-one sessions, video analysis, and a focus on the finer details of the game. This sort of development has clearly paid off for the young American, as his game has matured significantly since leaving Arsenal to join Valencia and eventually move to AC Milan.
In an interview in September 2024, Musah spoke candidly about his time at Arsenal, reflecting on how the academy had prepared him for the challenges he would face in senior football. “Arsenal really taught me a lot, they were ahead of time, I think,” Musah said. He went on to describe how the club’s focus on individual sessions and constant video analysis helped him improve his game in ways that went beyond the typical team training. This individualized approach to development gave him the tools he needed to succeed at the highest levels of European football.
After spending years honing his craft at Arsenal, Musah made the decision to move abroad in search of first-team football, a choice that ultimately led him to Valencia, where he continued his progression as a regular in their midfield. His time in Spain allowed him to further mature as a player, adapting to a different style of football while also competing in one of Europe’s top leagues. Musah’s move to AC Milan, where he has since made a name for himself, has only solidified his reputation as a rising talent in European football. His performances in Serie A have shown that he is more than capable of competing at the highest level, and it is clear that he is ready for the next step in his career.
Now, with Wolves reportedly interested in securing his signature, Musah’s potential arrival could be the catalyst that drives the club forward. His adaptability to play in a variety of positions—whether in the heart of midfield or as a wing-back—makes him an invaluable asset. His prior knowledge of the Premier League, albeit from his time in Arsenal’s academy, would also be beneficial. The Premier League is often characterized by its pace, intensity, and tactical demands, and Musah’s familiarity with its unique challenges would allow him to settle into the league with greater ease.
One of the key strengths of Musah is his versatility. In Wolves’ favoured 3-4-2-1 formation, which is built around a solid defensive structure and quick transitions, Musah could play a key role in both defensive and attacking phases. As a central midfielder, he could partner with others in the middle of the park, offering a dynamic and physically robust presence. He could also be deployed as a wing-back, providing width to the team’s attacking play while still contributing defensively. His speed, stamina, and work rate make him an ideal candidate for this role, as he is capable of covering large areas of the pitch, something that is crucial in Pereira’s system.
What’s particularly exciting about Musah is his ability to impact both sides of the game. In attack, his dribbling skills and vision enable him to make key passes and carry the ball forward effectively. He has a tendency to break through defensive lines and create overloads in wide areas, which could be particularly valuable for Wolves as they look to create chances from wide positions. In defence, Musah is disciplined and effective in tracking back, often able to snuff out danger before it becomes a threat. His ability to break up play and regain possession for his team would add a level of security to Wolves’ midfield, ensuring that they remain solid defensively while still posing a threat on the counter-attack.
However, Wolves face stiff competition to sign Musah. AC Milan will likely be hesitant to let go of a player who has become an integral part of their squad, and with other clubs, including Nottingham Forest, reportedly interested in the American, the race for his signature could become fiercely competitive. The transfer fee, which is believed to be in the range of £20-25 million, is certainly affordable for a player of Musah’s potential, but the presence of other interested parties could drive the price up, forcing Wolves to act swiftly if they are to secure his services. Adding to the intrigue is the reported interest from Nuno Espirito Santo, who is also looking to strengthen his midfield options. Nuno’s presence at Wolves could further complicate matters, with the former Wolves manager knowing Musah well from his time in England and likely valuing his qualities.
If Wolves are able to fend off the competition and sign Musah, they would be getting a player who has already proven himself at the highest level in Europe. His blend of defensive solidity, technical ability, and versatility makes him an ideal fit for the club’s ambitions. With Musah in the fold, Wolves would be adding a player who could slot seamlessly into their system and provide the kind of dynamic presence that could elevate their midfield. His understanding of the English game, combined with his experience in two of Europe’s top leagues, would make him an immediate asset to the team, providing the club with the depth and quality needed to challenge for a top-half finish in the Premier League.
In conclusion, Yunus Musah represents a prime opportunity for Wolves to strengthen their squad with a player who ticks many boxes in terms of tactical fit, experience, and potential. While there are many clubs interested in the midfielder, Wolves have a chance to secure a player who could play a key role in the team’s success over the coming seasons. If the club is able to sign Musah, it would mark an important step in their bid to remain competitive in the Premier League and possibly push for a return to European football. The next few weeks will be crucial as Wolves look to navigate a crowded transfer market and land the player who could provide the balance and dynamism that their squad so desperately needs.