Gary O'Neil has say on future of big Wolves stars
Gary O’Neil is fighting to keep hold of his Wolves stars as he calls for Nelson Semedo to be handed a new contract.


Heading into the summer, Wolves are aiming to be self-sufficient with transfers and are expected to have to sell a star player to reinvest in the squad – as Pedro Neto, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Joao Gomes all attract attention.
But O’Neil has also been quick to point out that some members of his side he is desperate to keep, even if it means a lack of summer additions.
“The club also need to know my opinion on which ones we definitely can’t lose, which is really important,” O’Neil said.
“There’s a lot of things that need to be discussed but once we have those discussions I can point out my opinion on them.
“My opinion isn’t final, but there are some players in the squad that are absolutely key to what we want to do and regardless of the fee they may be able to attract, I think it’s still more beneficial to have them in the building.
“They will be very, very tough to replace.
“It doesn’t mean there isn’t room to move people and bring people in, but there are some I’m desperate to keep hold of.”
The head coach is targeting more depth in his squad for next season as he looks to strike the balance between keeping his important players and generating enough money to bring signings in.
He added: “There are areas I think we’re really, really short that need addressing.
“It would be misleading if I went into too much detail before I’d spoken to the guys I need to speak with because I don’t want to lead everyone down a path that’s just in my mind at the moment and hasn’t been discussed.
“It’s easy to see some big flaws in the last few weeks because we’ve been incredibly exposed, so it’s given me a good understanding of areas I think we can improve, will really help us next season and put less strain on the squad.
“There’s lots of ideas but it’s pointless me putting them out there (publicly).”
Heading into the summer, Craig Dawson, Mario Lemina, Pablo Sarabia and Nelson Semedo will all have a year left on their contracts – while there is a one-year club option to extend Lemina’s deal.
O’Neil says conversations will be had over all four players, but picked out Semedo as one he is keen to keep hold of.
“There will be (talks),” O’Neil said.
“We’ll speak to Daws over the summer when he comes back, and with Mario the option is with the club so lots to discuss on that front.
“Nelson and Pablo too. Nelson has had an incredible season and is one I’m desperate to keep around. I’d love him to be here for as long as possible.
“Discussions with the others will all take place and they are more down to Matt Hobbs than me but I’ll have an input.
“Daws is the one that springs to mind because he’s out at the moment and only has a year left and I know what that can feel like as you get later in your career.
"I’ve spoken to him about how important he’ll be for us again next season. We’ve missed him since he’s been out.”
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