Wolverhampton Wanderers transfer news from BirminghamLive as Wolves add a young Portuguese forward to their ranks

Wolverhampton Wanderers have announced the signing of young attacker Leo Lopes.

The 18-year-old has joined Wolves on a three-year contract, running until June 2026. He will initially link up with the club’s under-21s for the upcoming season.

Lopes hails from Portugal but apparently spent time growing up in the UK and Wolves say he has been on their radar since the age of 16. The teenage winger has spent the past two years at Grasshopper Club Zurich in Switzerland.

“Leo is an exciting attack-minded player who can operate on either wing,” said Wolves’ head of UK academy recruitment Harry Hooman. “He makes things happen with his ability and athleticism in one v one situations. He is also prepared to do the other side of the game and shows good intensity and desire to defend out of possession.

“What has always impressed me most about him has been his hunger and personality. Leo has shown real maturity to go over to Switzerland at 16 and experience a new country and culture. I am sure he has learnt a lot both on and off the pitch over those two years, however now it’s time for him to kick on again and show us what he can do.”

Hooman added: “He has the attributes to be an exciting player for us over the coming years but he knows he will have to work hard and show consistency to earn his opportunities going forward.

“Coming into our under-21s will give him the next step and test he probably needs. Pre-season will be about settling in and getting to know his teammates and the coaching staff.

“I look forward to watching his development and hope to see him affecting games on a regular basis.”