Wolverhampton Wanderers are reportedly preparing a €20 million bid for Emmanuel Agbadou, the towering Ivorian central defender who has become a cornerstone of Stade de Reims in Ligue 1.
The 27-year-old, renowned for his consistency and leadership, has also garnered interest from Bundesliga side Stuttgart, but Wolves appear poised to make a decisive move.
Since joining Reims from KAS Eupen in July 2022, Agbadou has established himself as a key figure in the French club’s defense.
Standing at 1.92m, the Abidjan-born defender combines physical prowess with exceptional tactical awareness, making him a standout performer.
This season, he has started 14 of Reims’ 15 league matches, with his sole absence resulting from a suspension for yellow card accumulation.
His importance to the team is underscored by his captaincy, a role he has embraced in a squad where he has already made 82 appearances.
Agbadou, under contract until June 2028, is currently valued at €10 million, though his impact on the pitch suggests a far greater worth.
A regular for Côte d’Ivoire with seven international caps, he has become a pivotal figure for the Elephants.
While Stuttgart has been monitoring his progress as part of their search for defensive reinforcements, no formal offer has yet emerged from the German club.
Wolves, however, appear ready to act. Sitting 17th in the Premier League standings and battling relegation, the club has conceded 42 goals so far this season—the highest in the league.
Strengthening their backline is a priority, and Agbadou’s experience and composure make him an attractive option. According to L’Équipe, Wolverhampton’s willingness to table a €20 million offer could test Reims’ resolve to retain their captain.
Reims face a difficult decision, weighing their desire to keep a vital player against the financial lure of a substantial transfer fee.
For Agbadou, the move would represent a step into one of football’s most competitive leagues, following in the footsteps of other Ivorian players who have thrived in the Premier League.
As the January transfer window unfolds, the potential transfer of Agbadou promises to be one of the key stories to watch, with the defender’s future likely to be shaped by the ambitions of all parties involved.
