Julen Lopetegui makes fresh plea to Adama Traore over Wolves contract

Latest Wolves news from BirminghamLive includes Julen Lopetegui on Adama Traore's contract situation

Alex Dicken Senior Football Writer

22:30, 17 Feb 2023

Wolverhampton Wanderers boss Julen Lopetegui celebrates with Adama Traore after the 2-1 win at Southampton(Image: Kieran Cleeves/PA Wire)

Julen Lopetegui has reiterated his desire to keep Adama Traore at Wolverhampton Wanderers beyond the end of his contract.

Adama has emerged as a key player for Wolves since the arrival of his compatriot Lopetegui in November. The winger has only started one of Wolves’ seven Premier League games under Lopetegui, but he has been introduced early from the bench to make an impact.

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Wolves are working away behind-the-scenes to extend Adama’s contract, which is due to expire in June. Talks over the last two years have been fruitless and, as things stand, Adama will be able to leave Wolves on a free transfer in the summer.

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“The club is working, of course,” said Lopetegui. “We are happy with him. He is working in a very good way, sometimes starting from the bench, sometimes the pitch, but he’s always ready which is a good thing for us.

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“I don’t know what is going to happen because it is about two parts. But I can translate to you that I am happy with him, he knows that. I hope that he continues with us.”

Adama was heavily involved in Wolves’ comeback victory at Southampton last time out, while he also assisted Ruben Neves’ goal in the 3-0 win over Liverpool. The 27-year-old is rediscovering his best form under Lopetegui and could come into the starting line-up for the match against Bournemouth on Saturday.

Lopetegui commented: “Adama is a good player, first of all. He has a very special characteristic but he is trying to be more complete with the rest of his skills. We are trying to help him.

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“He has a very good character, he wants more and works a lot. It’s easy for us when the player wants to work. He has to improve more, of course, as do the rest of the players, but he wants (to improve).”

Should Wolves put out all the stops to keep Adama Traore? Have your say in the comments section

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