Wolverhampton Wanderers have successfully navigated the complexities of transfer deadline day to secure two significant signings, despite the official window having already closed. The club remains on track to formally announce the arrivals of striker Adam Armstrong and midfielder Angel Gomes, after submitting the necessary deal sheets before the deadline passed.
Strategic Moves Following Key Departure
This double swoop comes in the wake of Wolves confirming the £48 million departure of Jorgen Strand Larsen to Crystal Palace. Manager Rob Edwards is actively bolstering his squad's attacking and midfield options, with these new additions set to be unveiled imminently. The club's ability to complete these deals beyond the official deadline highlights their strategic planning and determination to strengthen the team.
Adam Armstrong: The Proven Striker
As reported extensively, Wolves have agreed a deal with Southampton to bring in Adam Armstrong for a fee of £7 million, with potential add-ons reaching £2 million. The 28-year-old striker, identified as the immediate replacement for Strand Larsen, has already successfully completed his medical examination.
Armstrong brings considerable experience and a proven goal-scoring record to Molineux. This season alone, he has netted 11 goals and provided four assists in 29 Championship appearances for Southampton. Since his £15 million move from Blackburn Rovers, he has accumulated 43 goals and 23 assists in 174 matches for the Saints.
His earlier career at Blackburn was particularly prolific, where he scored 64 goals and assisted 19 in 160 matches. Armstrong also demonstrated his capabilities during a loan spell at Coventry City in League One a decade ago, scoring 20 goals in 40 games. The only notable connection that might raise eyebrows among supporters is his brief stint at West Bromwich Albion during the second half of last season, where he featured for Wolves' local rivals.
Angel Gomes: The Creative Midfielder
Complementing Armstrong's arrival is the acquisition of Angel Gomes on a six-month loan deal from Olympique Marseille, with Wolves paying €1 million for his services. The agreement includes an option to make the move permanent at the season's end for approximately €7 million (£6 million), which remains valid even if Wolves face relegation to the Championship.
The 25-year-old midfielder is keen to revitalise his career following a challenging period at Marseille, where he managed just 892 minutes of playing time and scored four goals in Ligue 1, often finding himself in a backup role rather than the prominent position he anticipated.
Gomes' pedigree is nevertheless impressive. A graduate of the Manchester United academy, he made ten senior appearances for the Red Devils before moving to LOSC Lille, where he contributed 10 goals and 19 assists in 134 matches. His season at Portuguese club Boavista saw him score six goals and provide six assists in 32 outings, demonstrating his creative capabilities across different leagues.
What These Signings Mean for Wolves
These strategic acquisitions represent significant business for Wolverhampton Wanderers as they seek to strengthen their squad for the remainder of the season. Armstrong's proven goal-scoring ability in English football provides immediate firepower up front, while Gomes offers creative midfield options and potential for development.
The timing of these deals, completed through the submission of deal sheets before the deadline, showcases the club's organisational efficiency and commitment to improving their competitive position. As the formal announcements approach, Wolves supporters can anticipate how these new signings will integrate into Rob Edwards' tactical plans and contribute to the team's performances in the coming months.
