Sources: Wolves could be forced to accept Mateus Mane offer after Newcastle transfer reveal
Wolves could be forced to cash in on Mateus Mane if they are relegated from the Premier League as top clubs are beginning to circle.
Newcastle United are among Mane‘s admirers and have had scouts keeping tabs on his performances at Molineux since he burst onto the scene in December.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wolves are extremely reluctant to lose the 18-year-old but may be unable to turn down significant offers for his services should they suffer relegation come the end of the season.
Mane starred in Wolves 3-0 win against West Ham, before scoring again in a 1-1 draw with Everton, kickstarting what is an unlikely survival push.
Wolves remain overwhelming favourites to get relegated and are still 14 points shy of safety, but are unbeaten in three games, giving them an sliver of hope.
Chelsea, Man City and Newcastle eye Mateus Mane
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 7 January that Chelsea and Man City are keeping tabs on Mane, alongside a number of rival clubs.
The 18-year-old made his first start for Rob Edwards’ side against Liverpool on 27 December, and has since cemented himself as an important part of the side.
Given Wolves’ recent struggles, a multitude of top Premier League sides have been alerted to his talents and could lure him away from Molineux.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: “Mane has been a real bright spark for Wolves in what has been a dark season so far at Molineux.
“He burst onto the scene after making his first start in December, played really well in the 3-0 win against West Ham and scored a very good goal against Everton as well.
“Look there’s no getting away from it, if he continues to impress like he has done for Wolves between now and the end of season I’m sure there’ll be a lot of summer interest.
“As you said, Newcastle have been linked, they went to watch him the other week and I’m sure all the big clubs in the Premier League will be sitting up and taking notice of Mane.
“I don’t think Wolves will sell him in January, but if they do end up suffering relegation from the Premier League, it’ll be a lot harder for them to keep him in the summer.
“I’m sure those big clubs will be ready to pounce and capitalise on Wolves impending relegation and that’s what ends up happening.”
Wolves could be forced to accept offers for first-team stars
Brown told Football Insider on 25 December that Wolves are braced for offers for key players as they are edging closer to their inevitable relegation.
Wolves have picked up just seven points after 21 league games, and clubs will try to take advantage either in the January window or if they are eventually relegated.
The likes of Jorgen Strand Larsen and Joao Gomes have both been linked with moves away this month as Premier League sides look to pick them of their talent.
Brown told Football Insider in October that Wolves fear losing their best players as a result of what has been a dismal season amid growing interest.
However, while they are reluctant to lose important players, there is also a feeling that they could cash in while their stock remains high in the mid-season window.
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