Wolves re-sign former captain Matt Doherty

Matt Doherty has returned to Wolverhampton Wanderers, signing a three-year deal until 2026.

The 31-year-old only featured twice for Atletico Madrid in his six-month spell at the La Liga club and left for free. He has returned to the Molineux after a three-year absence. 

Doherty made his name at the Midlands club after contributing 28 goals and 41 assists in 302 appearances.

Doherty helped the club climb into the top flight from the Championship and appeared for them in the Europa League.

The Ireland international left for Tottenham Hotspur in 2020 for a fee of around £13.4 million, but he did not live up to expectations.

Doherty struggled in North London, although there was a brief period where it looked like he was making a resurgence under Antonio Conte.

His spell at Spurs was unremarkable, and he left for Atletico, where he never convinced Diego Simeone. 

Doherty has returned to Wolves and will hope he can help Julen Lopetegui’s side stay in the Premier League. He brings a wealth of experience plus versatility. He will likely deputise for Nelson Semedo at right-back.

Upon the signing, Wolves sporting director Matt Hobbs said (via Wolves.co.uk): “Matt’s come back to add some strength in depth to the full-back area, providing competition and making us better in those positions. 

“He knows the club and what it means to play here – he’s been successful here and knows what the fans want. 

“For us, it’s another homegrown player, but one who can share his knowledge and required standards across the group.

“Conversations have been really straightforward. I bumped into him on the golf course, and we had a brief conversation. I also spoke to his agent, and he’s been really keen. It’s been very quick, very simple. He’s shown he’s wanted to come back from the start, and it feels like an opportunity to him.”

Doherty becomes Wolves’ second summer signing following the arrival of keeper Tom King.

The 28-year-old shot-stopper joined on a free transfer from Northampton Town to cover for Jose Sa and Dan Bentley.

Also, Wolves are targeting a move for West Ham United left-back Aaron Cresswell. They will also return with another offer for Bristol City midfielder Alex Scott.