Joao Moutinho: More star players could be on their way to Wolves

And the 32-year-old Portugal midfielder says Wolves are like Manchester City ‘10 years ago’ – as they set about implementing their long-term goals this season.

The Euro 2016 winner said: “You never know (if we could replicate Manchester City). You never know the future.

“All the clubs want to be the best club in the world.

“Manchester City are one of those clubs. Maybe 10 years ago, they were like us.

“But we need to talk about the reality, the present.

“If you do a good present, you can be better the next year.

“You need to focus 100 per cent on this year as it’s very important.

“After that, we see what is better. If we do good things, I think it’s easier for the club to spend more money on more very good players – and it’s easier for players to want to come here.”

Wolves strengthened their team ahead of the Premier League campaign this summer by brining in a handful of eye-catching signings, which included Moutinho joining from Monaco in a £5million deal.

And the playmaker revealed he was attracted to joining Wolves by their ambitious ongoing project and the chance to play in the Premier League.

“Right now, it’s an opportunity to play in the Premier League,” said Moutinho. “I know the people, they tell me the project of Wolves.

“I know some players, staff, and they help me to understand what they want. It’s a good opportunity – a very good club. I came here to help.”

Asked if there was similarities between Wolves and Monaco, whom he helped to win a French Ligue 1 title in 2017, he said: “A little bit because they want to improve – to do great things. Monaco, I helped. I hope to help here too.”