Why Paulinho to Wolves would be a fantastic boost to their attack
According to A Bola (h/t Birmingham Mail), Braga star Paulinho is set to join Wolves in the summer as he is set to leave the Portuguese outfit.
Paulinho, 27, came through the ranks of Santa Maria’s youth system before joining Trofense in the summer of 2012. However, a year later, he was signed by Gil Vincente after impressing with 11 goals in 38 games in the 2012/13 season. Though he initially struggled, he became an integral member of the squad and scored 19 goals in his last season with Gil Vincente.
He was then signed by Braga in the summer of 2017 on a free transfer and has established himself as one of the best strikers in the Portuguese top-flight. He has been in sensational form in the last three seasons and helped his side lift the Portuguese League Cup earlier in the campaign. Thus, Wolves signing him seems to be a sensible move.
Nuno Espirito Santo has done a stellar job in the last two seasons with Wolves, helping them qualify for the Europa League. However, it is time for the manager to take them to the next level, and bringing in reinforcements should be a priority.
Paulinho could be a perfect replacement for Raul Jimenez
At the moment, Wolves have just three centre-forwards in their ranks. Raul Jimenez has been their star man in the last two years, leading their attack brilliantly. The Mexican has bagged 26 goals in 53 games across all competitions this season but he could be on his way out of the club as he has been heavily linked with an exit.
Other strikers available at the manager’s disposal are Leo Bonatini and Leonardo Campana. The Brazilian just returned from his loan spell with Vitoria Guimaraes but hasn’t been up to the mark in Liga NOS. Campana is just 20 years and inexperienced. Thus, if Jimenez departs, they could be left without an established striker.
In that regard, signing Paulinho would be a fantastic move by the club. The Portuguese forward has managed to score 23 goals and provide 8 assists in 41 games across all competitions this term and is in the form of his life. He has also made nearly 300 career appearances and his experience could come in handy for the Midlands club.
Given his recent successful form, he could replace Jimenez as the one to lead Wolves’ attack. He would provide them with some much-needed quality up front if Jimenez decides to leave. Paulinho would be a valuable asset for Wolves if he is able to replicate the form he has shown this season.
Read more
- Why Wolves should not make a move for Allan Saint-Maximin
- Why Wolves are bang on right in offering a new deal to Nuno Espirito Santo
Verdict
At 27, the former Gil Vicente man is in the form of his life. At the same time, Wolves would be left without a quality striker in the absence of Jimenez. Thus, bringing in Paulinho would be a smart decision by the club as he is capable of providing his best in the years to come.
