Wolves and Everton Battle for Brazilian Winger Lucas Ferreira in Summer Transfer Chase

Wolves Kick Off Their Transfer Business—But Eyes Are on More

Wolverhampton Wanderers have signaled their intent in the 2025 summer transfer market with the signing of Spanish midfielder Fer Lopez from Celta Vigo for £19.5 million. The 22-year-old’s arrival marks a strong start to the window and has fans excited about what lies ahead. But as is often the case with Wolves, there’s more brewing beneath the surface—and this time, their gaze is firmly fixed on the vibrant Brazilian football market.

In what could be another smart, youth-focused acquisition, Wolves are reportedly showing strong interest in São Paulo winger Lucas Ferreira, a highly-rated young talent regarded as one of the rising stars of Brazilian football. However, Wolves are not alone in this pursuit. Premier League rivals Everton have also entered the fray, setting the stage for a transfer tug-of-war between two clubs operating under contrasting strategies but similar budgetary limitations.

Lucas Ferreira: The Emerging Star from São Paulo

Ferreira, still in his teens, has been impressing with his dynamic performances for São Paulo FC, one of Brazil’s most successful and historic clubs. Known for his explosive pace, agility in one-on-one situations, and sharp decision-making in the final third, Ferreira fits the mold of the modern winger. At a time when European clubs are intensifying their scouting operations in South America, Ferreira has quickly become a name circled on many recruitment boards.

His current valuation sits just above £7 million, with Russian club FC Krasnodar reportedly having an offer rejected in that ballpark. São Paulo, however, appears reluctant to part ways with the youngster so soon. According to Brazilian journalist Jorge Nicola, the club would prefer to sell other players rather than let Ferreira leave, hoping to see his value appreciate over time.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Nicola stated:

“Those that have shown the greatest interest in signing the player are Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton. Neither of them has made an official offer to São Paulo. Lucas Ferreira’s representatives were consulted to understand how much it would cost, how much Lucas Ferreira would like to earn, and what the terms of the deal are.”

Wolves’ Strategy: Youthful Ambition Meets Budget Constraints

For Wolves, the interest in Ferreira aligns perfectly with their long-standing transfer strategy. The club has carved out a niche in identifying undervalued or developing talent across Europe and South America, often turning those prospects into high-value assets. Players such as Pedro Neto, Rúben Neves, and Diogo Jota were all recruited relatively young and went on to become Premier League standouts.

The signing of Fer Lopez signals that Wolves are willing to spend when they identify the right profile. Yet, fans are growing increasingly vocal about the need for balance. With recent exits like Matheus Cunha and Rayan Aït-Nouri weakening key areas of the squad, supporters are eager for reinforcements that can contribute from day one.

Ferreira represents long-term promise, but the concern remains that Wolves must also add proven, top-flight quality if they are to improve upon last season’s inconsistencies and push for a higher finish under new manager Vitor Pereira.

Everton’s Interest: Building on a New Vision

Over at Goodison Park, Everton are also believed to be in discussions surrounding Ferreira’s availability. The Toffees, led by a renewed recruitment team, are looking to pivot from an era of bloated wage bills and underperforming signings. Like Wolves, Everton now prefer cost-effective deals for younger players, a reflection of their stricter financial landscape.

Following several high-profile exits and a lackluster showing in front of goal last season, Everton need wide players with pace, creativity, and versatility. Ferreira’s skill set matches those requirements. While they haven’t tabled a formal offer either, Everton’s involvement signals that the competition for the Brazilian winger’s signature is intensifying.

Why São Paulo Are Hesitant to Sell

While Wolves and Everton show increasing interest, São Paulo’s management remains cautious. The Brazilian club is well aware of the financial power of European clubs, but in Ferreira, they believe they have a gem whose value could multiply within the next 12 to 18 months.

São Paulo is reportedly willing to offload other players to maintain Ferreira’s presence in their squad, a strategic move suggesting they see him as a cornerstone of their future sporting and financial plans. For Wolves and Everton, this means any deal would likely need to include significant upfront payment or a high sell-on clause, plus assurances of playing time and development.

What Wolves Must Do Next

If Wolves are serious about landing Ferreira, they’ll need to move quickly—and decisively. The club has already demonstrated its willingness to invest in youth, but with competition rising and São Paulo reluctant to sell, it may take a slightly higher bid—perhaps around £8–9 million—to force the Brazilian side’s hand.

Additionally, Wolves must reassure fans by complementing young signings with seasoned Premier League performers. After a season marked by inconsistency, new boss Vitor Pereira will want to avoid relying solely on untested prospects. Instead, a blend of youth and experience will be essential to achieving his tactical goals and avoiding a potential slide down the table.

The reported understanding within the club that more spending is needed is promising. However, that spending must now be backed by targeted action, especially in areas that directly impact performance—like the forward line and wide midfield.

Final Thoughts: An Opportunity with Caveats

Lucas Ferreira is undoubtedly an exciting talent. His emergence in Brazil and growing profile among European scouts are signs that he has the potential to develop into a key contributor in the Premier League. For Wolves and Everton, this is exactly the type of signing that can pay huge dividends down the line.

But such signings come with risk. Ferreira is not a proven top-league player yet, and either club will need to invest not just financially, but in terms of time, development, and support.

Wolves are currently in pole position, but Everton’s interest could complicate proceedings. In a transfer market where both clubs are looking to maximize output on limited budgets, every decision carries significant weight.

As negotiations continue and the summer window unfolds, the next few weeks will be critical in determining whether Ferreira makes the leap to England—or remains in Brazil a while longer.