Wolves will sell before they buy players

Kevin Thelwell today insisted Wolves' priority this summer is to "create some space" in their squad before they can sign players.

Wolves have been linked with several potential targets already, with Burnley's out-of-contract striker Martin Paterson the latest one at the weekend.

But while head coach Kenny Jackett has numerous players in mind, head of development Thelwell stressed the need to thin the squad first.

He said: "Our squad is big enough. While we are thinking about certain players and certain positions, we can't do a great deal unless we create some space in the squad.

"It's quiet at the moment in terms of the transfer market. There's not a huge amount going on in terms of movement of our players but this is to be expected at this stage of the off season.

"Everyone is making assumptions about the current group but until we start talking to the players, it's all ifs, buts and maybes."

Thelwell warned the process of moving players is likely to prove a difficult one, with several players having two years left on their contracts.

He said: "We are not separating one player or another and Kenny has to see what their mentality is as to whether they want to be here. I would love to say it's simplistic but it isn't.

"We all recognise that it's complex and that there won't be any knee-jerk decisions made.

"We want to make sure all the appropriate steps are taken and work towards a group that's capable of getting us back to the Championship and being successful."

Jackett has already said the four young strikers – Bjorn Sigurdarson, Leigh Griffiths, Jake Cassidy and Liam McAlinden – will be given their chance this season.

Thelwell added: "In terms of looking for a certain type, Kenny is really comfortable in that we have got some really good options up front, in that they're all different in their own way.

"Leigh will get his opportunity – I spoke to him and he's really looking forward to it.

"He had a great experience at Hibernian and an unbelievable one with Scotland in Croatia and he's desperate to break into our group."

Kevin Doyle has been linked with a move to Celtic and Jackett reiterated he needs to speak to the players first – they return this time next week - before anything is decided.

He said: "It very much depends on what calls we have for Kevin and what Kevin thinks himself."