In a recent print edition, AS has claimed that Wolverhampton Wanderers have identified Valencia striker Maxi Gomez as a January target. It is believed that Raul Jimenez’s recent injury has increased Wolves’ need for a new striker, so Nuno Espirito Santo might consider recruiting the Uruguayan international during the winter transfer window (transcripted and translated by Sport Witness).
Gomez’s Lacklustre Form At Valencia This Season
Gomez has struggled to be consistent at the Mestalla Stadium this season but deserves credit for producing a few productive displays as the focal point of Javi Gracia’s attack. He has registered three goals, one assist and two yellow cards in nine appearances for the Spanish club this term in various competitions.
The Uruguayan marksman has missed out on a couple of games due to a knee injury. Gomez has struggled to find consistency with his offensive contributions as he is averaging 1.6 shots, 0.3 key passes and 0.6 dribbles per game in La Liga this season. The Paysandu-born frontman has also been untidy when distributing the ball as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 66% in the Spanish top tier (stats via whoscored).
The 24-year-old has been far from his best over the past few months, so he could be tempted with an opportunity to make a fresh start at the Molineux Stadium in January. Nuno Espirito Santo has already shown that he can get the best out of his players, so Gomez might be a good fit for him as he could potentially become a regular goal-scorer in the Premier League when he hits his peak in the future.
What Will The Uruguayan Centre-Forward Bring To The Molineux Stadium?
Standing at 1.86m, Gomez has got the strength to overpower his marker and be a dominant force in the air. He can score his fair share of goals with his head and excels at getting himself into some promising areas inside the opponent’s penalty box.
The 19-time Uruguayan international can also be a composed finisher in front of goal when he is playing with confidence on the field. However, he is far from a prolific forward, so Nuno Espirito Santo will be taking a gamble if he decides to launch a move to bring him to the West Midlands in January.
Jimenez’s injury has left Wolves in a vulnerable position as they will now have to rely on the 18-year-old, Fábio Silva to lead their charge until the transfer window reopens at the start of next month. Adding someone of Gomez’s skill set could prove to be a decent mid-season signing for Wolves but only if he is available for a fair price. Otherwise, the Midlands giants will be better off opting for someone more prolific during this January transfer window.
