Report: Wolves target experienced PSG defender | OneFootball

Wolves Ambition Shows in Bold Skriniar and Sancho Links

Skriniar pursuit signals Wolves’ desire for leadership at the back

Wolverhampton Wanderers, never shy of a curveball in the transfer market, have emerged as surprise contenders for the signature of Paris Saint-Germain defender Milan Skriniar. As reported by CaughtOffside and credited by GiveMeSport, the Slovakian international could be available for just £17 million—an enticing fee for a player of such pedigree.

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At 30, Skriniar would bring precisely what Wolves have been missing: experience and leadership. Despite the January arrivals of Emmanuel Agbadou and Nasser Djiga, neither have been able to stabilise a backline that often looks uncertain. With Craig Dawson—Wolves’ only real veteran in defence—out of contract this summer and used sparingly, Skriniar’s arrival could address a crucial void.

Photo IMAGO

His résumé is decorated: over 70 caps for Slovakia, standout performances in Serie A with Inter Milan and currently on loan at Fenerbahce from PSG. Yet, it’s not just the name or past glory Wolves would be paying for—it’s the mentality and know-how in high-stakes situations that could transform a promising but inconsistent squad into one capable of climbing the table.

Financial reality may bite – but the intent is clear

Of course, there’s the issue of wages. Skriniar earns £260,000 per week at PSG—an amount far beyond Wolves’ current wage structure. Any potential move would likely hinge on either a significant wage cut or a cleverly structured deal. But the fact that Wolves are even in the conversation speaks volumes.

As one source told CaughtOffside: “Wolves are one of the teams showing an interest in signing Paris Saint-Germain defender Skriniar.” That line alone is telling. It’s not just about plugging holes; it’s about building credibility and ambition.

Sancho rumours only add to summer intrigue

Even more intriguingly, Wolves are being linked with a potential move for Manchester United outcast Jadon Sancho. Though still speculative, the notion that Wolves could line up next season with both Skriniar and Sancho is as audacious as it is exciting.

Photo: IMAGO

Whether or not these moves materialise, it’s clear that Vitor Pereira’s impact is being felt. With Premier League safety nearly secured, the club appears keen to back their manager. If that backing takes the form of top-level recruitment, then the 2024/25 season could mark the start of something far more ambitious at Molineux.

Wolves’ summer window looks set to be one of intent. If they land even one of these names, it’ll be a statement not just of survival—but of resurgence.

Statistical Analysis by EPL Index: Milan Škriniar Performance Data and Stats

Passing metrics define his current value

Milan Škriniar’s statistical profile over the last 365 days reveals a centre-back more comfortable with the ball at his feet than perhaps ever before. According to Fbref, Škriniar ranks in the 99th percentile for pass completion and 97th for passes attempted among centre-backs. His 97th percentile rating for touches further reinforces a player central to his side’s possession strategy.

This level of ball retention speaks to a stylistic evolution in Škriniar’s game. Once defined by his no-nonsense approach in Serie A, he now plays more like a quarterback in defence—capable of recycling possession under pressure and initiating attacking sequences.

Attacking threat from deep

What stands out further in the radar is his creative contribution. An eye-catching 90th percentile for assists and 71st for expected assisted goals (xAG) indicates Škriniar isn’t just safe in possession—he’s progressive. His 70th percentile rating for shot-creating actions aligns with this, suggesting he contributes meaningfully in build-up play.

Though his non-penalty goal threat (18th percentile) is minimal, his non-penalty expected goals (33rd percentile) hint at occasional presence from set-pieces. But it’s not goals he’s paid to produce—it’s stability and flow.

Defensive output a concern

Where the data is most intriguing—and perhaps most concerning—is in his defensive metrics. Škriniar ranks below the 40th percentile in clearances, blocks, and aerials won. His tackling and interception stats are middling (65th percentile), but these figures suggest a player better suited to a team that dominates possession than one constantly under siege.

At 30, Škriniar’s strengths lie in reading the game and distributing effectively. Any club pursuing him must prioritise possession-based football to get the best from him.