Hwang Hee-chan (29, Wolverhampton) transfer rumors are resurfacing.
The British media Football Insider, citing the Daily Mail, reported on the 23rd (Korea time) that "Wolverhampton plans to offload five players this summer," including Hwang Hee-chan, Boubacar Traore, Tommy Doyle, Craig Dawson, and Sam Johnstone.
The media explained that "we are currently in an era that must adhere to the revenue and sustainability rules (PSR). Clubs can sell players not favored by the coach at any time."
Wolverhampton parted ways with coach O'Neil in 2024 and appointed coach Vitor Pereira.
Daily Mail reporter Kolomos analyzed, "Hwang Hee-chan is theoretically a resource that can be utilized in both the flanks and the center. However, it seems that Coach Pereira does not see him as a candidate for the starting position."
Hwang Hee-chan joined Wolverhampton ahead of the 2021-2022 season. He has consistently proven his competitiveness in the Premier League, specifically recording 12 goals and 3 assists in 29 league matches under Coach O'Neil during the 2023-2024 season, achieving a career high. Based on this performance, he also extended his contract with Wolverhampton until 2028.
However, he faced a combination of injuries and poor form in the second half of last season. He participated in 21 league matches but mostly came on as a substitute, with only 652 minutes of play time. He scored just 2 goals.
After the match against Kuwait in the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup Asian Regional qualifiers on the 10th, Hwang Hee-chan said in an interview, "Honestly, I really want to play. I have memories of doing well in the past," adding, "If I can stay and play with the team, staying is a priority. However, if not, I am also considering an environment where I can play."
On the 5th, The Athletic also reported that "Wolverhampton is reportedly willing to listen to offers for Hwang Hee-chan this summer."
Molineux News, which covers Wolverhampton, stated, "Hwang Hee-chan received interest from Olympique Marseille in 2023 but chose to stay with the team. He may regret this choice."
Hwang Hee-chan attracted significant interest from Marseille just before his renewal in December 2023. It is reported that Marseille's new head coach Roberto De Zerbi even made a phone call to persuade Hwang Hee-chan to join. However, during the same period, Coach O'Neil also hoped to continue their journey together with Hwang Hee-chan. Hwang Hee-chan's choice was to stay with Wolverhampton.
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