One of Wolves Midfielder that is playing on loan for Molineux is set to leave the club permanently but yet to decide his stay in Wolverhampton Wanderers

 

Wolverhampton Wanderers look set to part ways with yet another first-team player this summer, with midfielder Joe Hodge reportedly closing in on a permanent move away from Molineux. The 21-year-old is now the subject of serious transfer interest from Portuguese side Tondela, and negotiations between both clubs appear to be at an advanced stage.

 

This summer has already seen a considerable number of departures from Wolves, with key figures such as Matheus Cunha, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Pablo Sarabia, Craig Dawson, Carlos Forbs, and Tommy Doyle all exiting the club for various destinations. Additionally, Nasser Djiga is preparing for a loan switch to Rangers, while Nelson Semedo, whose contract has technically expired, could also be on his way out despite Wolves having offered him a contract extension.

 

Now, Joe Hodge is expected to be the latest name added to the list of summer departures. The young Irish midfielder, who joined Wolves from Manchester City in 2021, has reportedly attracted firm interest from Tondela, who compete in Portugal’s Liga Portugal 2 (second tier). According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, the two clubs have already reached a transfer agreement, with personal terms also nearly finalised.

 

Hodge is said to have been offered a two-year deal with Tondela, with the option to extend for an additional two years. Talks have progressed swiftly, and the deal is considered to be in the final stages. A Bola describes the move as “well underway,” indicating that only minor formalities remain before the switch becomes official.

 

As part of the transfer terms, Wolves have reportedly negotiated a sell-on clause in the region of 20 to 30 percent, ensuring the Premier League side will benefit if Hodge is sold on for a higher fee in the future. The player is expected to travel to Portugal in the coming days to undergo a medical and link up with his new teammates ahead of pre-season.

 

Hodge initially showed great promise upon breaking into the Wolves senior squad, having made his debut in October 2022 in a Premier League match against Chelsea. He featured in several games during the brief caretaker spell of Steve Davis, following the sacking of then-manager Bruno Lage.

 

Upon the appointment of Julen Lopetegui, there was a brief surge of optimism surrounding Hodge’s future. On his very first day at the club’s Compton training base, Lopetegui singled out Hodge for praise, commending his performance in a Carabao Cup clash against Leeds United and stating the midfielder set an example to more senior players.

 

Despite those early compliments, Hodge struggled to cement his place in the first team, with injuries and fierce competition for midfield places stalling his progress. The past season saw him spend time on loan at Huddersfield Town, following a previous loan stint, but a permanent breakthrough at Wolves never quite materialised.

 

Now, as the club continues to reshape its squad under the current regime, it appears that Hodge’s chapter at Molineux is drawing to a close. While the final transfer fee remains undisclosed, the inclusion of a sell-on clause suggests Wolves still see potential in the young Irishman’s future development.

 

The move to Tondela could offer Hodge the regular playing time he needs to revive his career and fulfil the promise that once made him one of Wolves’ most highly regarded prospects.