Wolverhampton Wanderers begin preparations for the 2025\/26 Premier League season, and manager V\u00edtor Pereira is wasting no time in identifying areas for improvement. One position that has emerged as a clear concern is the left side of his defence, a zone weakened by the departure of Rayan A\u00eft-Nouri to Manchester City and reliance on the availability of Toti Gomes. With the club looking to build upon a disappointing campaign last season, Pereira has made his intentions known: a left-footed centre-back is high on the agenda.<\/p>\n
Wolves manager Pereira has identified the need for a new left-footed centre back as a summer priority. With Gomes currently the only senior player naturally suited to that role, Pereira is keen to avoid being left short in such a crucial area of the pitch. Speaking to the Express & Star<\/a>, the Wolves boss said: “Toti has done very well for us, but we need options to maintain our level. Balance across the back line is something I value highly”.<\/p>\n Read More:<\/strong> Wolves Pushing Hard To Sign Ligue 1 Star With ‘Many Admirers’<\/a><\/p>\n The urgency for defensive reinforcements has been magnified by the recent departure of A\u00eft-Nouri, who joined Manchester City in a deal worth a reported<\/a> \u00a331 million. The Algerian international’s ability to progress play from deep and contribute in wide areas made him a standout performer last season.<\/p>\n With A\u00eft-Nouri gone and no immediate replacement lined up, Wolves face a rebuilding task on the left side. Gomes remains a reliable presence, but his backup options are limited in both numbers and experience.<\/p>\n Hugo Bueno’s return following his loan with Feyenoord could ease the burden slightly. The 22-year-old Spaniard gained valuable first-team experience in the Eredivisie and Champions League and is expected to compete for a place in Pereira’s squad during pre-season. “Having Hugo back is positive”, Pereira said. “He returns with more experience, and that can only help with the group”. \u00a0Though Bueno is more suited to a wing-back role, his return offers some tactical flexibility as Wolves navigate their summer transfer business.<\/p>\nBueno’s Return Offers Some Relief<\/h3>\n