Wolves want to build around Benik Afobe

Wolves boss Kenny Jackett today responded to speculation linking Benik Afobe to Albion and Crystal Palace by declaring "we want to build a team around him."

Interest in the hot-shot from Wolves' arch rivals and the Eagles was reported in a tabloid earlier this week, after he helped transform the team since his arrival in January for £2m from Arsenal.

His eight goals in 14 appearances for Wolves have made him the country's second highest scorer with 27, after Tottenham's Harry Kane on 29.

And Jackett believes Afobe needs chance to develop his game at Wolves and is desperate to keep the 22-year-old for the long term.

The Wolves boss said: "We haven't had any bids or approaches from any clubs.

"Benik has only just come to us and on his present form we want to build a team around him and for him to help Wolves to keep improving.

"We're not in a position where we need to sell. We'll only do well as a club if we keep improving short term and long term - keeping our best players is a big part of that.

"We'd certainly want to be resisting interest. But Cristiano Ronaldo went from Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson, so it's impossible to say 'no player can go'."

Afobe's switch to Wolves was his first permanent move after loans spells with five clubs and Jackett believes the fleet-footed forward feels a sense of belonging at Molineux after temporary homes.

"He's a very good personality, a very good team man and the big thing for him now is he has a place here," said the Molineux chief. "He needs to play regularly in a good team.

"He was really keen to come here and the board wanted to make it a permanent move after he had a high number of loans in recent years.

"I think there are a lot of players at the big clubs can do very well on loan.

"But it's when they transfer that loan status to something permanent and feel part of something and feel a key, integral part of things that it brings out the best in you as a footballer.

"It gives you the confidence to play at your best."

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