Sky Sports: Wolves Attempt to Hijack Benfica’s Move for 24-Goal Sensation Franjo Ivanovic
Wolverhampton Wanderers are preparing a bold move to snatch Franjo Ivanovic from the grasp of Portuguese giants Benfica, according to a report by Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri. The Midlands club, who have already been active in the transfer market this summer, are now looking to further bolster their attacking ranks by swooping in for one of Europe’s most prolific young forwards.
Ivanovic, just 21 years old, enjoyed a breakout campaign with Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise in the 2024/25 season, netting an impressive 24 goals across all competitions. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with scouts from across the continent flagging the Croatian as a player with elite-level potential. Benfica moved quickly and were believed to have agreed to personal terms with the striker on a three-year deal, although negotiations between the Portuguese club and Union SG have hit a stumbling block over the transfer fee.
Wolves Ready to Pounce as Benfica Stalls
Union SG have reportedly set a valuation of around £21.6 million for their prized asset. While Benfica are attempting to drive the price down, Wolves have identified this delay as an opportunity to swoop in with a more lucrative offer — one that could turn the player’s head.
According to Tavolieri, although Ivanovic remains inclined to join Benfica — attracted by the prospect of Champions League football and the club’s stellar record of developing young strikers — Wolves’ financial muscle has added a new layer of complexity to the deal. The Premier League side, flush with cash following the recent high-profile departures of Matheus Cunha and Rayan Aït-Nouri for a combined total exceeding £100 million, are not afraid to flex their economic advantage.
More Firepower Wanted at Molineux
Manager Vítor Pereira has already made significant moves in the market this summer, converting the loan of Jacob Strand Larsen into a permanent deal and securing the signatures of Fer Lopez from Celta Vigo and Brazilian winger Jhon Arias — a standout performer at the Club World Cup with Fluminense. However, the Wolves boss is still keen on bringing in additional attacking reinforcements to ensure the team remains competitive in the absence of Cunha.
Wolves’ interest in Ivanovic is not just speculative. Sources close to the club suggest a formal offer could be submitted soon, especially if Benfica continues to struggle in agreeing a fee with Union SG. The Belgian club is open to selling, but only to the highest bidder — a stance that significantly boosts Wolves’ chances.
Ivanovic’s Dilemma: Prestige vs. Payday
Ivanovic now finds himself at a crossroads. On one side is Benfica — a club with pedigree in European competition and a proven track record of nurturing strikers into global stars, such as Darwin Núñez and João Félix. On the other side is Wolves — a Premier League side with the financial power to offer a better salary and a key role in one of the most competitive leagues in the world.
While Benfica may offer greater immediate prestige and the lure of Champions League football, Wolves’ offer could be more attractive financially and provide Ivanovic with a central role in their project. With Union SG open to negotiations and Wolves ready to meet the asking price, this developing transfer saga is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing battles of the summer.
Verdict: One to Watch
This potential hijack underscores Wolves’ ambition under Vítor Pereira and their desire to push forward after an eventful start to the transfer window. If they can convince Ivanovic to buy into their project — both with their vision and their wallet — they could land one of Europe’s brightest young forwards, in what would be a major statement of intent for the new campaign.