As per one of the latest reports by talkSPORT, Manchester United have emerged as the favourites to sign Benfica’s attacker, Anderson Talisca, in the summer. Championship outfit, Wolverhampton Wanderers, were also perceived to be very much interested to sign him after his dazzling form with Turkish side, Besiktas, on loan from the Portuguese outfit.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side would be aiming to beef up their attacking arsenal in the summer with their promotion to the Premier League looking very likely to happen. However, with the apparent interest from the Red Devils to sign Talisca, Wolves need to list the alternatives they should try to sign in case they fail to land Talisca and here are three such players.
Pizzi
Predominantly a central midfielder but more than capable of plying his trade as a central defensive midfielder, Pizzi could be a staggering addition to the ranks of Wolves. The 28-year-old offers immense attacking prowess by galloping to the final third and his mobility and pace causes a lot of trouble to oppositions’ defences.
In 25 appearances in Liga NOS so far this campaign, Pizzi has plundered 5 goals and has also registered 6 assists for Benfica. Besides, he has the experience of Champions League football under his belt. He is an astute crosser of the ball, passes the ball well and given Wolves’ Portuguese connection, the Championship outfit should try to make him sign on the dotted line.
Callum Paterson
Cardiff City’s tremendous run of form in the Championship this season has made them really look like a side worthy enough to earn a promotion to the Premier League. One of the most productive players for the Bluebirds this season has been their midfielder, Callum Paterson.
Paterson has showcased his versatility of operating from the central midfield, attacking midfield, left-wingback as well as a left-back. In 23 appearances in the league, the 23-year-old has been able to garner 8 goals and 4 assists to his name. Wolves do have the financial muscle and thus, they must try to lure Paterson to the Molineux Stadium in the summer.
Ricardo Valente
Maritimo’s Ricardo Valente could also be an exciting alternative to Talisca. Valente is capable of producing fruitful outputs from either wing as well as from the no. 10 slot for his side and has unarguably been one of the stand-out players in the Portuguese top flight this term.
The 26-year-old is a clinical finisher and the manner in which he creates chances for his teammates up front has been quite exemplary. His statistics are compelling too, for he has banged 7 goals and has mustered 3 assists in 24 league appearances, and is worth aiming for in the summer.