According to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook, Wolverhampton Wanderers could make a temporary deal to provide cover for Raul Jimenez.

The Lowdown: Jimenez ruled out

Wanderers kick off their new Premier League season when they travel to Elland Road to take on Leeds United on Saturday, but will be without their star number nine.

The Mexico international picked up a serious injury during the club’s pre-season friendly against Besiktas last month, and has therefore been ruled out of action for at least the next four weeks.

This leaves Bruno Lage light in the final third heading into the fixture against the Whites this weekend, with versatile wingers Hwang Hee-chan, Pedro Neto and Daniel Podence the only real options to play through the middle.

The Latest: Loan deal?

One would be forgiven for thinking the club need a permanent new addition given Fabio Silva has left on loan also, but speaking to GiveMeSport, Crook suggested that Wolves may simply look for a short-term replacement in the market.

“They need a forward now because Jimenez is going to be out for between six to eight weeks. That might be a short-term loan signing.”

The Verdict: Batshuayi a possibility

Reports emerged on Thursday that Wolves are now in advanced talks with Chelsea over the season-long signing of Michy Batshuayi, and he would be the perfect addition to Lage’s starting XI.

The Belgian enjoyed a hugely successful campaign with Besiktas, netting 14 goals and providing five assists in the Super Lig, as per Transfermarkt.

If Wanderers could get this deal over the line, the Midlands outfit might just put themselves back in the race to nail down a European spot next term, given that a strong start could be catapulted into a great one once Jimenez returns.