Wolverhampton Wanderers are in talks to sign Velez Sarsfield midfielder Maximo Perrone, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Release clause available

The 19-year-old’s contract with the Argentinian outfit isn’t set to expire until the end of next year, but it’s believed that his deal includes a €10m (£8.4m) release clause, a pretty affordable sum for any potential suitors.

Premier League giants Manchester City were eyeing a move for the wonder-kid earlier in the window, though it now sounds like Bruno Lage’s side have come in and completely hijacked the deal, with the Molineux outfit favourites to land him.

The Latest: Wolves closing in on Perrone

According to journalist Cesar Luis Merlo (via Sport Witness), it’s claimed that Wolves are in the process of ‘negotiating’ a transfer for Perrone.

It’s stated however that even if Wanderers do reach an agreement with Velez, the player will complete his season in the Primera Division before linking up with his new teammates in the Midlands ahead of the start of the 2023/24 campaign.

They say his market value is a mere €2m (£1.7m) but the exact fee of what the English side would have to pay is going to be higher than that.

The Verdict: One for the future

Perrone is a hugely exciting prospect, and given his age, would definitely be a signing for the future at Wolves.

The South American, dubbed a ‘wonderful talent’ by football scout Ron Dor, naturally plays in a more defensive role and has averaged 1.5 interceptions and 1.3 tackles per league game for Velez this season, via WhoScored.

Bruno Lage has a history of developing and introducing young players into the first team fold, and Perrone’s name looks likely to be added to that list in 2023.