Wolves smash transfer record to sign Raul Jimenez for £32million on permanent deal from Benfica
WOLVES have completed the £32million club-record signing of striker Raul Jimenez from Benfica. The Mexican can be considered one of the coups of the season having bagged 15 goals in 37 appearances since joining on loan in the summer. Jimenez has been instrumental in Wolves’ terrific campaign that has seen them push for a Europa […]
WOLVES have completed the £32million club-record signing of striker Raul Jimenez from Benfica.
The Mexican can be considered one of the coups of the season having bagged 15 goals in 37 appearances since joining on loan in the summer.
Jimenez has been instrumental in Wolves’ terrific campaign that has seen them push for a Europa League spot and reach the semi-finals of the FA Cup.
And he has been rewarded by penning a four-year deal to keep him at the West Midlands club until 2023.
The transfer fee tops the previous record signing of Adama Traore, who joined for £18m from Middlesbrough last summer.
Jimenez, 27, has been an important figure for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side having forged a prolific partnership with Diogo Jota.
Between them they have 23 goals in all competitions while Jimenez has also picked up seven assists.
I want to make history here at the club. With my teammates, I want to put the club back into the top places in the Premier League.
Raul Jimenez
Speaking of his permanent switch, he said: “It’s a great honour for me to now be a permanent member of the team. I’m very happy for this permanent deal as I feel that being at Wolves suits me.
“I’ve enjoyed my time here, I enjoy playing in the pitch and, along with all my teammates, we try our best in all the matches to win.
“Since I’ve arrived here it’s all been so good. We’ve had some good moments, some bad moments; but the best ones have been so good and I’m very happy for that.
“I want to make history here at the club. With my teammates, I want to put the club back into the top places in the Premier League. I think we all want that and have that ambition.
“For myself personally, I want to keep scoring for the rest of the time I am here, and that’s going to be my main goal.”
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Jimenez opened his Wolves account on his Premier League debut against Everton and his since scored crucial goals against Chelsea, Tottenham and Manchester United.
Kevin Thelwell, Wolves’ sporting director, told the club website: “The impact Raúl has made during his short time here has been fantastic and we’re delighted that he’ll be part of the club’s long-term future.
“From the second he walked through the door, he settled straight into the group, and that reflects in his performance, with Raúl providing assists and overall selfless performances, as well as obviously goals.
“His goals in the Premier League and FA Cup have been vital to this season’s success and we’re looking forward to seeing him contribute even more during what will be an exciting end to the season in both competitions.
“Raúl’s permanent signing shows the ambition of this football club and the determination to make sure the future is an exciting one.”
Wolves have already made Jonny’s deal from Atletico Madrid permanent.
