Wolverhampton Wanderers face a decisive choice on striker Sasa Kalajdzic as the 2026/27 Championship season looms, with the Austrian forward returning from a successful loan and a World Cup equaliser.

Should Wolves retain Kalajdzic after his World Cup impact?

Kalajdzic arrived at Molineux in 2022 but missed almost two years through two ACL ruptures. A loan spell at LASK last season produced a historic double, and his late‑stage goal against Algeria at the Qatar World Cup earned Austria a knockout‑round spot. The 28‑year‑old still has one year on his contract, plus a 12‑month extension option, leaving his future uncertain.

How does Kalajdzic fit into Cesar Peixoto’s promotion plan?

New boss Cesar Peixoto inherits a squad bolstered by parachute payments and recent signings like Kieran Trippier and Raul Jiménez. Peixoto’s task is to blend experience with emerging talent. Kalajdzic’s height and aerial threat could complement Trippier’s set‑piece deliveries – the latter has already sent the striker nine corners in a single match, according to fan pundit Thomas Woodhall.

What are the arguments from the Wolves faithful?

Woodhall argues that keeping Kalajdzic would give Wolves a second target up front, especially if they move on Tolu Akinyemi. He notes the striker’s willingness to take a wage cut after relegation, meaning his value to the club could rise dramatically with a strong season. Fans echo this sentiment, pointing to his resilience and recent form as reasons to hold onto him.

What could happen if Wolves let him go?

Should the club decide to sell, Kalajdzic could attract interest from Austrian clubs or mid‑table Bundesliga sides looking for a proven goal scorer. A departure would free up wages but also remove a physical presence that could be decisive in tight promotion battles. The decision will likely hinge on Peixoto’s assessment of squad balance and the financial terms offered.

What’s the timeline for a final decision?

The transfer window closes on 31 August 2026, giving Peixoto roughly six weeks to finalize his squad. With pre‑season fixtures starting in early July, the manager will need to settle the striker’s status quickly to integrate any new arrivals and maintain cohesion.

Bottom line: Kalajdzic’s fate hangs in the balance as Wolves chase an immediate return to the Premier League. Fans, pundits, and the new manager all have a stake in whether the Austrian forward stays to help the Old Gold climb back to the top flight.