Report: Vitor Pereira has asked Wolves to sign ‘exciting’ £22m defender who was once on Bruno Lage’s radar
Wolverhampton Wanderers are preparing for a transformative summer transfer window, with the club ready to make significant investments in the squad following the departures of two of their standout players.
The first major exit came when Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha sealed a move to Manchester United last weekend in a high-profile deal. Now, left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri is reportedly on the verge of completing a switch to Premier League champions Manchester City, marking another blow to Wolves’ squad depth but simultaneously opening the door for reinforcements.
For Wolves supporters, seeing star players move on has become a familiar story over the years. However, what’s different this summer is the club’s renewed commitment to rebuilding effectively. Structural changes at the leadership level are underway, aimed at giving new head coach Vitor Pereira greater influence over recruitment and squad development.
One of the most notable changes has been the departure of Sporting Director Matt Hobbs, who left the club by mutual consent earlier this week. In his place, Domenico Teti is expected to arrive as the club’s new technical director, with transfer business being actively supported by influential super-agent Jorge Mendes, whose longstanding ties to Wolves continue to shape the club’s transfer direction.
Fans have welcomed the shake-up behind the scenes, with a growing sense of optimism surrounding the club’s summer plans. There is already talk of multiple incoming signings, with particular attention being paid to bolstering both the attack and defence. One name now gaining serious traction is Brazilian centre-back Robert Renan, who is reportedly high on Vitor Pereira’s wishlist.
Vitor Pereira Identifies Robert Renan as Defensive Priority
While strengthening the forward line remains a clear priority for Pereira, the Portuguese manager is equally determined to shore up his defensive options—especially with Ait-Nouri’s impending exit.
According to Brazilian outlet UOL, Robert Renan has emerged as a key target for Wolves, with Pereira personally requesting the club to pursue a deal for the promising 21-year-old. Pereira knows the player well, having managed him during their time together at Corinthians in 2022, and sees him as a potential long-term solution on the left side of defence.
Renan is currently contracted to Russian giants Zenit St. Petersburg, though he spent the 2023–24 season out on loan at Saudi Arabian club Al Shabab, where he impressed across 35 appearances. During his stint, the defender showcased not only strong defensive capabilities but also contributed in attack with three assists—highlighting his well-rounded skill set.
Renan’s Profile: A Modern Centre-Back with High Upside
Described by some as an “exciting” young talent, Renan has already attracted interest from European heavyweights such as Real Madrid and Chelsea earlier in his career. Former Wolves boss Bruno Lage was also keen to bring him to Molineux back in 2022, when the player was still just 18 years old and breaking through under Pereira at Corinthians.
Now more experienced and mature at 21, Renan is valued at around £22 million, which matches the release clause included in his Zenit contract. While talks between Wolves and Zenit are believed to be in the early stages, Pereira’s close relationship with the player could prove decisive in bringing him to the Premier League.
Technically proficient, Renan is a left-footed centre-back known for his composure, ball-playing ability, and tactical intelligence—qualities that fit the profile of a modern defender in top-flight football. He reads the game well, boasts a clean first touch, and excels under pressure when building out from the back. His athleticism and positional awareness also make him a tough opponent for attackers.
Despite limited top-tier exposure at club level, Renan’s potential was acknowledged in March 2023 when he earned a surprise call-up to the Brazil senior national team—a significant achievement for a player who had only featured at U18 and U20 levels up to that point.
Reuniting in the Premier League
A reunion between Pereira and Renan could be exactly what both men need. The manager is looking to stamp his identity on a Wolves squad in transition, while Renan could find the Premier League stage an ideal platform to continue his development under a familiar mentor who believes in his ability.
As Wolves enter a new chapter with a refreshed leadership structure and transfer strategy, the pursuit of Robert Renan signals their intent to build a youthful, dynamic, and technically proficient team. Should the deal materialize, Renan could become a cornerstone in Wolves’ revamped backline—and a symbol of the club’s commitment to long-term growth under Vitor Pereira.