Wolverhampton Wanderers have reportedly identified a highly-regarded Portuguese midfielder as a summer transfer target.
In sharp contrast to 12 months ago, Wolves have enjoyed a productive transfer window, signing three players who will seemingly bolster the squad.
Young right-back Pedro Lima and forward Jorgen Strand Larsen have each arrived at Molineux, as has Portuguese playmaker Rodrigo Gomes.
All three players have impressed during a pre-season campaign that has seen Wolves defeat the likes of West Ham United and RB Leipzig in style.
However, Gary O'Neil is known to be in the market for a new centre-back to replace Max Kilman and another central-midfielder to add depth and quality in the engine room.
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Almeida on Wolves' midfield shortlist
According to AS, Wolves hold an interest in securing the signature of Valencia's Andre Almeida.
The 24-year-old spent the early part of his career in his homeland with Vitoria de Guimaraes before earning a €7.5m transfer to Valencia in August 2022.
Such was Valencia's expectation of the former Portugal Under-21 international that he has handed a six-year contract at the Mestalla.
In his two campaigns, a total of four goals and six assists have been contributed in 56 appearances, a far better return than at Vitoria.
Last season, Almeida missed a large chunk of action due to a muscle injury, and the only two times that he completed 90 minutes came in May.
Although Almeida remains highly valued in the Valencia senior ranks, the La Liga outfit are said to be open to a sale if they can generate at least €12m (£10.3m).
The report adds that teams from Italy and Germany are also monitoring the situation, yet Wolves will be confident of winning any race for his signature.
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Wolves a home from home for Portuguese players
Ruben Neves and Joao Moutinho have been key components in the Wolves midfield in the past, and several of their compatriots remain in the West Midlands.
Jose Sa, Nelson Semedo, Toti Gomes, Rodrigo Gomes and Pedro Neto are all in line to be part of the first-team squad for 2024-25, while Daniel Podence, Goncalo Guedes and Chiquinho may also remain at the club.
Furthermore, there is the Portuguese-speaking Brazilian trio of Lima, Joao Gomes and Matheus Cunha, a factor that can only strengthen Wolves' efforts to get a deal over the line.
Darren Plant
