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Wolves signing this 22-year-old in-form starlet would add some much-needed competition

Why Aurelio Buta could be a smart signing for Wolves in January

According to a report from the Sunday Mirror (h/t the Express), Wolves are closing in on a deal to sign Royal Antwerp’s highly-rated full-back Aurelio Buta.

Aurelio Buta, 22, has impressed in Belgium this season, having joined from Benfica last summer. He has thrived in a wing-back role with Antwerp and has been watched by Wolves scouts in recent months.

Wolves aren’t the only Premier League club to have taken a look at Buta, with Watford, Newcastle United and a host of Championship clubs also keeping tabs on him.

Antwerp's Aurelio Buta pictured in action during a soccer match between Royal Antwerp FC and Sporting Charleroi. (Getty Images)
Antwerp’s Aurelio Buta pictured in action during a soccer match between Royal Antwerp FC and Sporting Charleroi. (Getty Images)

The report adds that Nuno Espirito Santo’s side will complete a loan deal in January with the idea of signing the Portugal youth international permanently should he impress. (h/t The Express)

Wolves are starting to click as a unit in the Premier League after a slow start to the 2019/20 campaign. They have qualified for Europa League Round of 32 and will be looking to gain momentum in the league after the international break.

However, Nuno should reinforce his squad in January, with more depth vital to Wolves enjoying great success in both competitions. With Adama Traore impressing on the right flank after being used as a wing-back earlier this season, the Wolves tactician should prioritise adding more cover and competition for Matt Doherty in the right wing-back role during the winter transfer window.

Aurelio Buta would be a smart addition to Wolves ranks. He was once on the books of Benfica before heading to Antwerp in 2017, initially on loan before turning the deal permanent in 2018.

Wolves striker Raul Jimenez celebrates after scoring the equaliser against Southampton. (Getty Images)
Wolves striker Raul Jimenez celebrates after scoring the equaliser against Southampton. (Getty Images)

The Angolan has been in good form in Belgium this season with one goal and an assist in 13 league games, while he managed six assists in 20 appearances last term.

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An attacking right-back with great ability going forward, whilst being defensively solid as well, Buta would thrive in Nuno’s 3-5-2 system. Wolves do need an extra face in the wing-back department to keep Doherty on his toes, especially with European football to consider.

Verdict

A loan deal in January would give Wolves the chance to see whether Buta is worth signing permanently. If he adapts quickly to life in the Premier League, he can earn himself a permanent deal.