Newcastle target Mateus Mane drops hint on Wolves future

Newcastle United have been keeping tabs on Wolverhampton Wanderers youngster Mateus Mane this season with a view to a potential swoop.

The 18-year-old midfielder has been a standout in a poor season for Wolves and has unsurprisingly captured the attention of several clubs, including Newcastle.

In January, Newcastle were reportedly readying a bid for the Wolves academy graduate, but nothing materialised; however, the interest hasn't gone away.

Wolves' relegation from the Premier League was confirmed weeks ago, and no doubt Newcastle will have been contemplating a summer swoop; however, a recent report suggests they may have their work cut out for them.

Mateus Mane to remain a Wolves player?

According to the Express and Star, Wolves are confident they can keep the youngster next season, and even the player himself has dropped a strong hint that it will be the case.

Wolves boss Rob Edwards insisted that Mane will be a Wolves player next season, while Mane has said he wants to help get his club back to the Premier League.

“It’s my first breakout season, and I’ve enjoyed every moment. But I know I’ve got to keep going now and see what happens in the future.

“It’s good to hear people saying nice things, and I like to hear it, but I’ve got to keep fighting, try not to listen too much and focus on my game.

“I’ve always believed in myself. I thought this season I was going to get more game time, and it’s worked out for me.

“I’ve got a few goals, got a few assists, but now it’s time to keep working, keep moving, keep fighting, and next season, we’ve got to work hard to try and get the club back to where we want it to be, in the Premier League.”

Let's hope Newcastle tests Wolves' resolve

It all sounds pretty definitive, but there's a long summer ahead, and things could change rapidly. Wolves have Mane tied down until 2029, so in that regard, they are under no pressure to sell. Selling an academy graduate is pure profit, though, and given the season he's had, they could be looking at a decent payday if they were to sell, and that could be very tempting.

If Newcastle sells Joe Willock, then Mateus Mane could be the ideal replacement. They are very similar in play style, being left-sided attacking midfielders who look to get forward, but Mane's potential is massive. Under Eddie Howe's guidance, he could become a huge player for us.

This one is probably more wishful thinking on our part, and Wolves seem pretty committed to keeping hold of him, which will make things difficult.