Wolves exclusive: Talks to re-sign Matt Doherty underway as Julen Lopetegui gives green light to transfer of Crystal Palace target

Wolves are closing in on the re-signing of former full-back Matt Doherty, TEAMtalk understands.

The 31-year-old Dubliner was a hugely-popular figure during his decade-long service at Molineux between 2010 and 2020. Playing a leading role in helping them earn promotion and then establish themselves in the Premier League, the wing-back made 302 appearances, scoring 28 times during 10 seasons at the club.

That form ultimately persuaded then Spurs boss Jose Mourinho to pay Wolves an initial £13.4m to bring him to north London.

But Doherty was never quite able to find his consistent best form in N7.

Regularly flip-flopping with Emerson Royal and Japhet Tanganga for a shirt, he ultimately found himself slipping down the pecking order.

And when Tottenham brought in Pedro Porro from Sporting Libson on an initial loan, leading to a permanent €45m deal, Spurs surprisingly took the step of tearing up Doherty’s deal. The star explained how his brutal exit at Tottenham came about in this honest interview.

That allowed the right-back to secure an eye-catching free-transfer switch to Atletico Madrid.

However, Doherty failed to make an impression in LaLiga, featuring just twice in all competitions under Diego Simeone.

As a result, he was released at the end of the season and now remains without a club.

Since then, Doherty has spoken to a number of clubs since leaving becoming a free agent. Indeed, he’s reportedly on the shopping list of clubs in Saudi Arabia, where his wages would go through the roof.

Doherty wants Wolves over Crystal Palace

However, Doherty is keen on a Premier League return, with Crystal Palace among those considering his signing.

However, a return to Molineux has always been a priority for Doherty.

The Old Gold are in the market for another full-back this summer and we understand Julen Lopetegui has now sanctioned the return of Doherty.

Talks of his return are now gathering pace and there is optimism than an agreement can soon be announced.

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