Wolverhampton Wanderers are exploring a potential move for Nigerian forward Philip Otele as they look to strengthen their squad before the close of the January transfer window.
According to BBC journalist Nizalla Kinsella, Wolves have held initial discussions over the conditions required to sign the 26-year-old from Swiss side Basel, amid efforts to arrest a difficult Premier League campaign.
Otele, who joined Basel last season, is believed to be open to a switch to English football, with personal terms not expected to be an obstacle. The forward has also attracted interest from Scottish champions Celtic and Italian club Lazio.
Philip Otele. Photo Credit: Imago
Basel are thought to be seeking a fee of around £7m for the attacker, although Wolves have examined the possibility of a loan deal that would include a fee and an option to buy at the end of the season.
Any move, however, is likely to depend on player sales at Molineux, with the club operating cautiously in an uncertain transfer window.
Wolves currently sit bottom of the Premier League table with eight points from 22 matches, despite a recent improvement in performances. They are 14 points from safety, highlighting the scale of the task facing the club in the second half of the season.
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Otele has impressed in Switzerland, scoring 17 goals and registering seven assists in 51 appearances for Basel. His ability to operate across the front line has made him an appealing option for clubs seeking attacking reinforcements.
Tolu Arokodare celebrating with his teammates. Photo Credit: Imago
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If the deal is completed, Otele would link up with fellow Nigerian forward Tolu Arokodare at Wolves. Arokodare joined the club from Genk last summer and has scored four goals, with one assist, in 21 appearances across all competitions this season.
