Wolves have already enjoyed an exciting Championship transfer window so far; however, new manager Cesar Peixoto will still be looking to strengthen the defensive areas of his squad, writes Transfer News Blitz‘s Will Jones.
Following relegation from the top flight last season, Wolves have wasted little time rebuilding their squad under their new manager.
The arrivals of Kieran Trippier, Raúl Jiménez, Rafiki Saïd and Ladislav Krejčí have added lots of experience and technical quality, giving Wolves fans much optimism heading into the new campaign.
Despite this, a 46-game Championship season can be gruelling and the second tier demands lots of defensive strength in depth.
Here are four realistic, defensive signings that could really improve Peixoto’s squad and boost Wolves’ promotion hopes this season.
Viktor Johansson
With Jose Sa widely expected to leave Wolves before the window closes, the West Midlands side could be targeting a new starting goalkeeper ahead of the new campaign.
A potential shrewd piece of business would be to acquire Stoke City’s Viktor Johansson, who’s proven himself to be a competent Championship keeper since joining the club.
A product of Aston Villa and Hammarby’s academies, Johansson made his name at Rotherham United, before leaving the Millers in 2024 to join Championship side Stoke City.
The Sweden shot-stopper recently signed a new four-year deal with the Potters.
However, if Wolves are convinced he’s their future number one, they may be willing to test Stoke’s resolve with a tempting offer.
Having already played over 100 games in the second tier, the familiarity he would bring to the Wolves team could be vital in taking them straight back up to the Premier League.
The 27-year-old recorded 73 saves and an impressive 74.5% save percentage in the Championship last season, also keeping eight clean sheets.
With Peixoto favouring a high defensive line in his 4-3-3 system, having a goalkeeper capable of playing that “sweeper” role behind the defence is crucial – Johansson recorded 36 sweeper actions last season, showing how proactive he is in fulfilling those duties.
With Wolves targeting an immediate return to the Premier League, a goalkeeper suited to Peixoto’s demands could prove to be vital, and Johansson possesses many of the qualities needed to thrive in his system.
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Max Alleyne
Wolves’ defensive structure will be crucial under César Peixoto, with the Portuguese coach demanding a high line and aggressive pressing from his side so far during pre-season.
This requires centre-backs who are not only defensively reliable but also comfortable stepping out with the ball.
Manchester City’s Max Alleyne could be an attractive option as Wolves look to strengthen their back line.
The 21-year-old spent last season on loan at Championship side Watford, making 17 appearances for the Hornets before being recalled in January, due to City’s defensive injuries.
Capable of playing either side of the centre back, Alleyne’s versatility allows him to play anywhere across the back line.
During his spell in the second tier last season, he made 27 tackles, 15 interceptions and six blocks, demonstrating his ability to step in and disrupt attacks.
This could then be useful to help Wolves counter-attack, such is the nature of a high-pressing system which usually involves lots of turnovers of possession.
His 66.1% duel success rate also highlights his physical strengths in a demanding division.
If Wolves could get him signed on for next season, the City youngster could really fit into Peixoto’s style of play and could potentially be a clever signing for the Midlands side.
Amando Lapage
Cesar Peixoto’s opted for a 4-3-3 so far during his tenure as Wolves boss, this demands defenders to be comfortable in possession while also being able to cope with the physical demands of the Championship.
Amando Lapage showcased these characteristics with Westerlo in Belgium last season.
In his 16 Belgian Pro League appearances last campaign, he played 1266 minutes, helped the team keep five clean sheets and averaged 62 passes per game – suggesting he gets heavily involved in build-up play.
The Belgian came through the highly regarded Anderlecht academy before moving to KVC Westerlo in February 2025.
Capable of playing anywhere across the back line as well as being able to operate as a defensive midfielder, his versatility would offer Peixoto’s team great flexibility.
As well as being technically gifted, the 21-year-old centre back stands at an imposing 6ft 2ins, and these physical attributes will also be key in a division as physical as the Championship.
Peixoto will want players that fit his style of play, and Lapage has the technical profile to develop into that role.
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Josh Tymon
While Wolves have already strengthened in the full-back department through the signing of right back Kieran Trippier, uncertainty remains over who will be the club’s starting left back in the second tier, especially as Hugo Bueno has been linked with a move away.
If Bueno were to depart, Swansea City’s Josh Tymon would be an ideal option for Wolves.
The 27-year-old has established himself as one of the Championship’s most consistent performers from the left-back position – contributing 10 G/A across 45 league games last season, picking up an impressive nine assists for the Swans.
Peixoto’s system demands width from full-backs, and Tymon would certainly provide it. He gained a reputation for providing plenty of support as an overlapping runner last season for Swansea.
Tymon has a wealth of Championship experience, making 222 league appearances across his time with Hull City, Stoke City and Swansea City.
At 27-years-old, he still would have plenty of second-tier experience to offer to Wolves if they chose to pursue his signature.
Wolves have already shown ambition in the transfer market this summer, but further defensive additions could be crucial if they’re to be promoted at the first time of asking.
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