Wolverhampton Wanderers are 'expecting' to lose Adama Traore in the summer transfer window, despite Julen Lopetegui's recent comments, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Lowdown: Traore's future in doubt

Lopetegui has always spoken favourably about Traore in interviews, recently re-affirming his importance to the team by saying: "Adama is a very special player, a particular player, he is trying to improve in a lot of things. I have seen him with a big commitment. Players want to play more but he is an important player for us."

Those comments would suggest that the boss is keen for the winger to extend his stay at Molineux, however, he is yet to commit to a new contract, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the season.

Recent reports have even claimed the player could be offered to Champions League quarter-finalists AC Milan, casting huge doubt on his Wolves future.

The Latest: Jones' comments

In an interview with GiveMeSport, Jones suggested that the Wolves hierarchy are resigned to losing the Spaniard in the summer window, despite how highly he is rated by the manager. The transfer insider said:

"Lopetegui is saying all the right things and making positive noises.

"But anyone I speak to seems pretty adamant that they're not expecting Adama Traore to stay at the club any longer. I think it's probably still most likely that his future lies elsewhere."

The Verdict: Right call?

There was a time when the 27-year-old was an absolutely vital player for the Old Gold, being described as 'fantastic' by members of the media during the 2019-20 season, which was by far and away his best campaign in a Wolves shirt.

The 5 foot 10 speedster weighed in with a very impressive four goals and nine assists in the Premier League, however, he has been unable to reach those heights since, both in England and during a loan spell with FC Barcelona.

While he has often only been utilised as an impact player, the eight-time Spain international has picked up just two goals and one assist in 24 top-flight appearances this season, playing far below the level he was at a few years back.

Traore seemingly has no desire to commit to a new contract at Molineux, but it would not be a huge loss if Lopetegui loses him for free at the end of the season, given the limited impact he has made.