Wolves put three first-team players ‘up for sale’ in Rob Edwards’ most ruthless act yet

Wolves put three first-team players ‘up for sale’ in Rob Edwards’ most ruthless act yet

Wolves manager Rob Edwards has taken his boldest step yet in reshaping the squad by placing three senior first-team players on the transfer list ahead of the January window. The move marks a significant shift in approach under the new head coach, who has made it clear behind the scenes that standards must rise swiftly if the club is to regain stability during the second half of the Premier League season.

Although the club has not formally announced the players involved, sources close to Molineux say Edwards delivered a direct message to the hierarchy earlier this month, insisting that certain members of the squad were not performing at the required intensity. The 41-year-old has become increasingly vocal about the need for stronger discipline in training, clearer commitment to tactical instructions and a heightened level of competition across all positions.

Wolves, who have endured an inconsistent start to the campaign, are expected to be active in the January market. Edwards views the upcoming window as a crucial opportunity to restructure the squad and bring in players who fit the identity and energy he wants. He has repeatedly underlined the importance of creating “a group that runs, presses and fights together”  a message that has now translated into decisive action.

A major turning point behind the scenes

Insiders describe this decision as the moment Edwards fully stamped his authority on the club. While many new managers choose to wait for a pre-season before making major changes, Edwards has opted for immediacy. Those within the training ground say the head coach has been assessing individuals closely since his arrival, using video sessions, performance tracking and one-to-one talks to gauge professionalism and adaptability.

It is after this period of assessment that Edwards is understood to have identified three players who he feels no longer fit the long-term direction of the club. Approaches from other clubs will now be welcomed, with Wolves keen to move early in the window to avoid last-minute negotiations.

Players revealed: Daniel Podence, Santiago Bueno and Saša Kalajdžić

The three players made available are Daniel Podence, Santiago Bueno and Saša Kalajdžić, each for different reasons but all reflecting Edwards’ desire for a more dynamic, physically intense squad.

Podence, who returned from a loan spell earlier this year, has long been admired for his creativity but has struggled to deliver consistent contribution across full matches. While capable of unlocking defences, Edwards is believed to have concerns about his off-the-ball work, particularly inside a system that demands repeated pressing actions and disciplined defensive shape.

Bueno, meanwhile, has endured a difficult adaptation period since arriving from Girona. Though technically solid, questions have been raised about his pace in transitions and his ability to withstand high-tempo Premier League football. With Edwards aiming for a more aggressive defensive line, Bueno has increasingly found himself slipping down the pecking order.

Kalajdžić’s situation is more unfortunate. The striker has suffered multiple injuries since joining the club, making it difficult for him to build momentum or secure a starting role. Edwards appreciates the player’s professionalism but feels the squad requires a more mobile, relentless forward to execute his pressing structure. A transfer would likely suit both the club and the Austrian, who retains interest from several Bundesliga sides.

A rebuild shaped by clarity, not sentiment

Edwards’ approach has been described as “pragmatic rather than symbolic”. He is not seeking sweeping change for the sake of it but rather targeting areas where he believes Wolves must evolve. He has also stressed that every outgoing must be matched with an appropriate incoming, with midfield reinforcements, wide-area pace and a multi-functional forward at the top of the recruitment list.

Wolves are expected to reinvest funds from any January departures directly into strengthening the squad. The club is keen to resolve the futures of Podence, Bueno and Kalajdžić early in the window, enabling a more structured and predictable recruitment plan.

Fan reaction reflects both optimism and caution

Supporters have reacted with varied emotions. Some have praised Edwards for acting decisively and refusing to accept performances that fall below expectations. Others have expressed concern about losing experienced players midway through a challenging campaign, particularly without knowing who the replacements may be.

However, there is broad acknowledgement that Wolves have, in recent seasons, drifted through windows without strong identity or direction. Edwards’ firmness, therefore, is being interpreted by many as a long-needed reset.

A defining January lies ahead

Regardless of differing opinions, one thing is clear: Rob Edwards has made his presence felt. His decision to place multiple senior players on the transfer list  barely months into his tenure  underscores a manager unafraid to take risks in pursuit of improvement.

For Wolves, the January window will now be pivotal. The club’s business over the next few weeks may well define not only the remainder of the season but the early trajectory of the Edwards era.

The message is now unmistakable: perform, adapt, and raise standards  or be prepared to move on.