Exclusive: Wolves face Premier League competition for starlet goalkeeper
Wolves are facing competition from Premier League rivals Chelsea as they monitor wonderkid Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro, the Express & Star understands.
The 19-year-old goalkeeper is attracting attention from a number of clubs and, as reported by the Express & Star in November, Wolves were exploring a possible £2million move for him last year.
His current club AZ Alkmaar were keen to extend his contract, however, and convinced the player to sign fresh terms until 2028.
Despite that, Wolves are still keeping tabs on the shot-stopper and it is understood Chelsea have now joined a list of clubs that are closely following his development, while Belgian club Anderlecht are also admirers.
Owusu-Oduro has played understudy to experienced goalkeeper Mathew Ryan this season, playing just seven times for the Dutch top flight side in all competitions.
Ryan, however, is out of contract this summer and there are hopes at Alkmaar that Owusu-Oduro will challenge to become the first choice goalkeeper next season, despite his age.
Wolves continue to monitor the teenager, but are yet to make a move for his signature and it remains to be seen if they will make an approach.
If they do make a move, there is no suggestion it would be to replace either Jose Sa or Dan Bentley.
Owusu-Oduro joined Alkmaar’s academy as a child and made his debut for the reserve team Jong AZ in August 2022, playing in the Dutch second tier.
He played an important role in the AZ side that won the UEFA Youth League in 2022/23, saving two penalties in the semi-final.
His first team debut came this season as the second choice goalkeeper behind Ryan.
Wolves have also been linked with a number of young goalkeepers, as they monitor the goalkeeping department at the club.
Comment Guidelines
Iconic Media encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.