Wolves Opinion: Why Nicolas Otamendi will be a solid fit for Nuno’s Wolves

According to a report from the Birmingham Mail, Wolves are interested in signing Manchester City star Nicolas Otamendi as the defender wants to leave the Etihad in search of regular football.

The Argentinean, 31, penned a contract extension in January 2018 to extend his deal until the summer of 2022 but has fallen behind the likes of Aymeric Laporte, John Stones and Vincent Kompany in the pecking order in recent months. He has only started 14 league matches this season and is open to the idea of finding regular game time elsewhere.

Otamendi is one of many high-profile players on the books of super-agent Jorge Mendes, whose links with Wolves means a move to Molineux remains a big possibility for the defender.

Wolves have been excellent upon their return to Premier League football as Nuno Espirito Santo’s side look to book a place in the Europa League. They have arguably been the best team outside the Big Six this season but Nuno needs to start planning for the 2019/20 campaign from now on.

A central defender is a must for the Midlands outfit, considering they lack depth in that department. Although Conor Coady, Willy Boly and Ryan Bennett have been excellent, a player in the mould of Otamendi could take Nuno’s team to a different level altogether.

Otamendi is an aggressive defender, strong in the air and powerful in the tackle. The Argentina international is comfortable in bringing the ball out from the back and initiating attacks with his passing range. He has a fine technique and shows a lot of composure in possession which makes him a reliable defender to have in the squad.

The 31-year-old is a good reader of the game and has decent pace that helps him make recovery runs to stop his opponent from scoring. His focus gets diverted at times and he can be caught out of position but overall, the Argentine is a solid defender to have in the squad. Furthermore, Otamendi’s experience could be valuable for Wolves, whilst being a straight upgrade on Ryan Bennett.

Verdict

Otamendi would be a really solid addition to the Wolves backline, whilst bringing some much-needed leadership skills and experience to the squad. He is a Premier League winner and has worked under Nuno previously at both Porto and Valencia.

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Thus, Nuno should consider testing City’s resolve with an audacious bid for the Argentina international in the summer.