Wolverhampton Wanderers are currently in contract negotiations with Independiente’s Patrick Mercado, with Rob Edwards’ first contract for the midfielder almost complete.
With Joao Gomez’s future at Molineux uncertain, Wolves are looking to sign a new midfielder, with the 24-year-old recently linked with a desire to move to Old Trafford.
The Old Gold will really be putting their Premier League status on the line if they allow Gomez to leave next month, but they are already very resistant to that having picked up just two points from their opening 11 games.
Edwards will be aiming for a major turnaround starting with this weekend’s game against Crystal Palace, but if the new manager can get the team within reach of 17th place by January, some new signings could help push the team into a safe place.
Timberwolves are in talks to sign Patrick Mercado
According to a report from El Diario (via Sport Witness), Wolves are currently in contract negotiations with Independiente midfielder Mercado, who has emerged as the frontrunner in the race, with the deal almost complete.
The 22-year-old is therefore likely to be Edwards’ first signing at Molineux, and with a signing fee touted at €5.96 million, it is likely to be relatively cheap.
Sevilla and a number of unknown Portuguese clubs are also in the race to sign the maestro, but with the club on the back foot, it looks like he could end up at Wolves, even if signing the Ecuadorian is risky.
The versatile midfielder, who can play the roles of defensive midfielder and attacking midfielder, is yet to prove himself outside his home country and may need more time than Edwards’ team will take to adapt to life in the Premier League.
That doesn’t mean the Tena-born ace isn’t a future star, however, and continued to be a regular source of goals and assists for Independiente throughout the 2025 season, contributing to 18 goals.
Patrick Mercado’s offensive performance in 2025 | Appearance | Contribution to goal |
Pro League Serie A | 28 | 11 |
Liga Pro Championship Round | 4 | 2 |
south american cup | 7 | 4 |
copa libertadores | 6 | 1 |
Given Mercado’s relatively low price tag, it’s still worth pursuing a deal, but Wolves, who have not won a league game so far this season, may need to bring in a more established player to stand a chance of avoiding relegation.
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Old Gold have made an offer for their new forward, which could come at a bargain price.