Wolverhampton Wanderers would be taking ‘a huge gamble’ if they signed striker Mauro Icardi this summer, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Midlands outfit have been linked with a shock move for the 29-year-old, who is deemed surplus to requirements by French giants Paris Saint-Germain.

What is the latest news involving Icardi?

Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport (via Sport Witness) has recently stated that PSG chiefs have turned to super-agent Jorge Mendes in an attempt to offload Icardi.

It’s claimed that the reigning Ligue 1 champions are attempting to sign Gianluca Scamacca from Sassuolo but need to sanction Icardi’s sale before they can press ahead for the 23-year-old.

PSG are reportedly hoping that Mendes can use his close ties to Wolves to secure the Argentina international a switch to Molineux over the coming months.

With two years remaining on his contract, though, Icardi is unlikely to come cheaply, and it remains to be seen if Bruno Lage’s charges can be tempted into making a formal bid.

What has O’Rourke said about Icardi?

Icardi joined PSG on a permanent basis in June 2020 for a fee potentially rising to £51.2 million following a successful season-long loan from Inter Milan.

However, things have not gone to plan since, with the South American only starting 10 Ligue 1 games last term, and O’Rourke believes he is now carrying ‘a bit of baggage’.

Barca agree De Jong transfer!? Hear more on The Football Terrace...

In an interview with GiveMeSport, he said: “Unfortunately, there’s a bit of baggage around Mauro Icardi.

“The last couple of years haven't worked out for him as he would have hoped. So, it would be a huge gamble if Wolves were to push forward in this deal.”

Would Icardi be a risk worth taking?

Icardi has always struggled to make a telling contribution outside of the box, with his work rate, link-up play and eye for a pass all limiting his impact in his side’s overall play.

Nevertheless, the 5 foot 11 ace has established himself as a proven goalscorer when within the 18-yard box, registering 173 senior career goals in 344 club games.

Last season was a struggle for Icardi, though. He found the back of the net on just five occasions in his 30 appearances across all competitions, falling down Mauricio Pochettino’s pecking order.

Icardi would also likely demand extortionate wages should he make the switch to Wolves, and Lage may be better off targeting a younger forward who won’t make such a financial dent.