Wolverhampton Wanderers currently have a significant nine players out on loan for the ongoing 2024/25 season, but one player is making waves beyond expectations.
Manager Gary O’Neil took a bold approach during the summer, sanctioning loan moves for several fringe players in order to provide them with much-needed exposure and experience. Among these moves was the departure of Fabio Silva, a talented forward whose time at Molineux seems to be nearing its conclusion after various loan stints away from the club.
Despite strong indications that Silva’s future lies away from Wolves, he surprisingly remained on the club’s roster in the summer despite reported interests in a permanent departure. In a twist of fate, Silva finds himself on the radar for a potential call-up to the Portugal national team.
Following a turbulent half-season at Rangers, Silva was once again loaned out, this time to La Liga outfit Las Palmas. The 22-year-old has thrived in Spain, earning accolades for his performances both domestically and on the international stage with Portugal U21.
His standout performances, including finishing as the top scorer in the U21 European Championship qualifiers, have caught the eye of national team coach Roberto Martinez. Portuguese outlet Record has hinted at Silva’s strong chances of securing a spot in Portugal’s Nations League squad for the upcoming international break, with the striker featuring in the 40-man selection.
A potential national team call-up would mark a remarkable turnaround for Silva, who faced criticism for his performances under O’Neil and was even labeled ‘comical’ in front of goal during his time at Ibrox.
While Silva’s inclusion in Martinez’s squad is not yet confirmed, Record’s optimism on the matter is encouraging. If the forward can cement his place in the Portugal national team before his Wolves contract expires in 2026, it could potentially enhance his market value and benefit the club financially.
Although the chances of Wolves recouping a fee close to the £35 million they paid for Silva are slim, his progressing international career is surely a positive development for the club. Following a series of setbacks, the prospect of Silva ending his 2024/25 season with a successful spell in La Liga and a national team call-up represents a significant turnaround in his fortunes.
