Wolverhampton Wanderers are reportedly close to making a formal offer for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Joao Palhinha.

The Premier League outfit have been linked with Palhinha for a number of transfer windows, the Portugal international having impressed in his homeland over the past two seasons.

There is an acceptance that the 26-year-old will take on a new challenge this summer with Wolves currently regarded as the clear frontrunners for his signature.

According to Jornal de Noticias, Wolves have been holding talks with their counterparts at Sporting ahead of making a concrete bid for Palhinha.

The report suggests that the player could cost in the region of €25m (£21.3m), although it highlights that Ruben Vinagre moving in the opposite direction for €10m will effectively act as a discount.

Wolves are prioritising a deal for at least one new midfielder this summer due to Ruben Neves being expected to depart Molineux. body check tags ::