Wolverhampton Wanderers have officially confirmed the departure of defender Nigel Lonwijk to Israeli Premier League side Maccabi Haifa in a £500,000 deal. The 23-year-old leaves Molineux after six-and-a-half years with the club, having joined from PSV Eindhoven in January 2020.
What happened in Lonwijk's Wolves career?
Lonwijk arrived at Wolves as a teenager and progressed through the academy ranks, though he never made a senior appearance for the first team. The Dutch defender spent six loan spells away from the club, gaining valuable experience at lower-league sides. He trained with Gary O'Neil's squad during pre-season, including the recent trip to Portugal, but was not involved in the friendly win against Maidenhead United.
Why did Wolves let Lonwijk leave?
Technical director Matt Jackson explained the move was beneficial for all parties. With just one year remaining on his contract, Wolves secured immediate income from the transfer while retaining a 25% sell-on clause. Jackson praised Lonwijk's professionalism and highlighted his development pathway, noting he joined under different academy rules that allowed overseas talent recruitment at a younger age.
What's next for Lonwijk?
The 23-year-old now begins a new chapter at Maccabi Haifa, where he'll look to establish himself in the Israeli top flight. Wolves' technical director wished him well, acknowledging his young family and the opportunity for regular first-team football. The club's development model continues to produce opportunities for young players to progress, either at Molineux or elsewhere.
