Wolves beat Southampton in transfer race in perfect response to Arsenal disappointment

Wolves have completed the signing of highly-rated Rochdale youngster Matheus Mane.

Mane was a regular for Dale's youth team this season. He was named on the bench for their senior team back at the start of February, which caught the eye of Wolves. He has already played one game for the club, coming on for half hour in a 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest.

The midfielder also played for Southampton after playing for Wolves, but chose to pen a deal at Molineux. Mane was pictured alongside his supportive family at his unveiling this week.

In a post published on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter on Wednesday evening, Romano said: "EXCL: Wolves have signed 16 year old talent Matheus Mane from Rochdale for their Academy. "From Non-league to Premier League, Wolves have completed the deal and it’s all signed. Exclusive story, confirmed."

It is possible that he could make his proper debut when the under-18 Premier League season resumes on Saturday, April 6. Wolves' under-18s side are fifth in their 13-team division which is currently led by Manchester United.

The move comes after Brayden Clarke last week moved to Premier League rivals Arsenal. He had spent the early stages of his career with Wolves, and was part of the Wales side that reached the Under-17 European Championship finals.

Clarke joined the Gunners as a first-year scholar. He made his debut for their under-18s last weekend, featuring in an 8-3 win over Crystal Palace. Arsenal play in a different conference to Wolves and are fifth, with West Ham leading their respective division.