How Diogo Jota Could Help Wolves Pull Off Ambitious Liverpool Swoop This Summer
Wolverhampton Wanderers fans will always hold Diogo Jota in the highest regard for the memories he created during a thrilling spell at Molineux.
Signed initially on loan from Atlético Madrid in the summer of 2017, Jota quickly became the heartbeat of Nuno Espírito Santo’s attacking line. His permanent move in January 2018 only solidified his influence, with the forward playing a pivotal role in Wolves’ return to the Premier League and subsequent consolidation as a top-flight force.
Now, five years after his departure, Jota could again play a decisive role in shaping the club’s future – albeit from a distance.
With Wolves eyeing ambitious reinforcements this summer, there’s growing speculation that the club could pursue a move for a current Liverpool player – and Jota’s presence at Anfield may just be the key to unlocking it.
Though the identity of the target remains under wraps, reports have linked Wolves with interest in several fringe players from the Reds’ squad, and Jota’s close relationship with many of them could help sway any decisions. His time under Nuno fostered a deep connection to Wolves, and those inside the club are understood to believe that the Portuguese international would speak positively about his former side if approached for advice.
Among the players admired by Wolves’ hierarchy is Caoimhín Kelleher, who is expected to seek regular first-team football this summer. The Irish international has grown frustrated with a lack of minutes behind Alisson Becker and is open to new opportunities. Wolves, having monitored the goalkeeping market, are seen as one of the clubs potentially well-positioned to offer him a platform.
While Kelleher has publicly remained respectful about his role at Anfield, he has previously referred to Jota as “amazing” and one of the best finishers he has faced in training. That kind of admiration could carry weight should the conversation around a move gain traction.
Jota himself has never hidden his fondness for Wolves. Speaking after his £45m move to Liverpool in 2020, he said: “I will always be grateful to Wolves. They gave me the platform to show what I could do in English football, and I’ll never forget that.” His rapport with key figures at Molineux, including members of the backroom staff who remain from his era, is still strong.
In a transfer window that promises to be one of strategic evolution at Wolves, the ability to lean on past connections and relationships could prove invaluable. With Julen Lopetegui looking to reshape the squad around a younger, hungrier core, the recruitment team is expected to pursue players ready to make the step up – but who also fit the club’s cultural DNA.
If Wolves are to land a high-calibre name from Liverpool’s ranks, Diogo Jota’s voice behind the scenes might be one of their most persuasive tools. His legacy at Molineux could yet yield another key moment – this time in helping bring another top talent into the fold.