Wolverhampton Wanderers could be pushed ‘down the preference order’ of LOSC Lille midfielder Renato Sanches amid competition for his signature, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The 24-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away from the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in recent months after putting in some eye-catching displays.

What is the latest news involving Sanches?

According to Sky Sports, Wolves were close to bringing Sanches in on loan during the summer window before ending talks after the two clubs failed to reach an agreement.

It’s believed that Lille refused to renegotiate terms after the 32-cap Portugal international picked up a knee injury, leading to Bruno Lage’s charges pulling out of talks.

However, in a recent interview with L’Equipe (as relayed by The Mirror), Sanches revealed how he is now ‘ready’ to take the next step in his career following an extremely successful three-year stint in northern France.

Reporter Tom Collomosse previously told GiveMeSport that there’s ‘definitely interest’ from Wolves in the classy operator, while the player himself confirmed he has multiple options moving forwards.

Sanches claimed that both AC Milan and Arsenal are keeping close tabs on his situation before revealing that he was also close to joining Catalan giants Barcelona ahead of the current campaign.

What has O’Rourke said about Sanches?

Lille president Olivier Létang confirmed back in October that if an acceptable offer is tabled for their prized asset, then he will be allowed to leave the reigning Ligue 1 champions.

Nevertheless, O’Rourke believes bringing Sanches to Molineux will be a tricky task for the Wolves hierarchy given the level of competition they are expected to face for his signature.

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He told GMS: “You’ve probably got the likes of Arsenal, who like the look of the midfielder as well; there’s also been talk of AC Milan.

“You would imagine if those two clubs come to the table, it might just push Wolves down the preference order of Renato Sanches if you've got clubs the size of Arsenal and AC Milan interested in your services.”

Would Wolves be a good move for Sanches?

Sanches has revived his career at Lille after struggling to make an impact with Bayern Munich following his £27.5 million move from boyhood club Benfica at just 18 years old.

His next transfer could prove to be pivotal, therefore, and his underlying numbers indicate he could be ready to join another European heavyweight.

As per FBref, Sanches has ranked in the 99^th percentile for dribbles completed, the 97^th for shot-creating actions and the 95^th for assists and progressive carries over the last year amongst players in his position.

Moving to a side like Wolves, who are currently eighth in the Premier League table, could perhaps be seen as a sideways step, and Sanches would arguably be better off returning to the top table of European football.