Wolves hold 'preliminary talks' with 16-goal striker wanted by West Ham

The Old Gold have been bought more time in the race to sign Salernitana star Boulaye Dia as the attacker is reportedly set to reject an offer to return to Serie A.

Salernitana’s recent relegation from the Italian top flight has left the Salerno-based club rather powerless in their attempts to keep hold of Dia. Lazio are keen and a fee of around £8.5 million has reportedly been agreed, but the player is holding out for a different career venture instead.

Our sister publication, Express & Star, reports Dia is yet to accept Lazio as he wants to explore a move to the Premier League. Wolves have held talks with the player’s representatives and a bid could follow as Gary O’Neil is desperate to add to his attacking ranks.

Wanderers struggled a great deal with a lack of squad depth last term, particularly in attack, so signing at least one new striker is a necessity. Southampton’s Che Adams is in talks to sign for the Old Gold upon the expiry of his current contract, though the Saints have offered the attacker improved terms.

West Ham to challenge Wolves for Boulaye Dia

Fellow Premier League team West Ham are also on the hunt for a new striker as Michail Antonio is set to leave on a free transfer at the end of this month. It was widely reported in January that the Hammers were interested in bringing Dia to London Stadium, so a summer bid is definitely possible.

Set to cost just £8.5 million, Dia could be quite the bargain for any potential suitor. The 25-time Senegal international had reduced minutes last term due to an array of muscular injuries but he still managed to notch four goals in Serie A. The season before that was seriously impressive as he scored 16 and made six assists in 33 league matches.