Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Santiago Bueno could still leave the club this summer despite the closure of the English transfer window. Journalist Liam Keen reported this week that the Uruguayan centre-back is now the most likely candidate for an out-of-window move to a league where business remains open.
Santiago Bueno, 27, has not played a single minute for Wolves this season despite being named the club's Player of the Season for the 2025/26 campaign. The club's defensive performances have been poor, most recently in a defeat to West Ham United on Tuesday. Manager Cesar Peixoto has a crowded group of centre-backs to choose from, including Toti Gomes, Yerson Mosquera, Nasser Djiga, Ladislav Krejci, and youngster Saheed Olagunju. This surplus makes a potential exit for Bueno a logical outcome if a suitable offer arrives.
The transfer windows in several major foreign leagues remain open, including those in Saudi Arabia, Portugal, and Turkey. A move to one of these competitions would allow Bueno to secure regular playing time. It would also potentially free up space and resources within the Wolves squad. The club could then explore the free agent market to address other areas, such as the wide positions highlighted as a concern.
Peixoto must now find a settled defensive unit from his available players. The defeat to West Ham exposed significant issues, with players like Gomes struggling and goalkeeper Jose Sa also facing criticism. With the transfer window closed, the manager has no alternative but to work with his current group. The return of experienced defender Kieran Trippier from injury will provide a welcome boost. The club's standings position will depend heavily on shoring up a defence that has conceded too many goals early in the season.
If Bueno departs, competition for the starting centre-back roles will intensify. Ladislav Krejci, who has also been linked with a move away, may now see more opportunities. Yerson Mosquera's physical presence and Nasser Djiga's potential will be important factors. The development of young players like Saheed Olagunju could also be accelerated. Fans can track the full squad composition on the official squad page.
The immediate focus for Peixoto is selecting a backline for the Championship fixture against Birmingham City this Sunday. Stopping the flow of goals is essential for any promotion push, and the manager's selections at St. Andrew's will be closely watched. The team's upcoming schedule, including this key local fixture, is available on the fixtures list.
