Wolves Lead Max Aarons Chase as Bournemouth Hold Firm Amid Growing European Interest

Wolverhampton Wanderers are emerging as early frontrunners in the race to sign Max Aarons, with the soon to be Championship side understood to be positioning themselves ahead of a crowded field of European and English rivals this summer.

Contract Status and the Bournemouth Factor

According to information obtained by SportsBoom, Wolves are leading interest alongside FC Porto, Villarreal CF and West Ham United, all of whom are monitoring the 24-year-old right-back ahead of a potential move. 

The player is expected to return to AFC Bournemouth this summer, where he remains under contract for another three years, leaving the Cherries in a strong negotiating position.

Aarons spent the 2024/25 campaign on loan at Rangers, making 35 appearances in total, although his involvement tailed off towards the latter stages of the season as he struggled to secure consistent game time. 

Despite flashes of experience and reliability, his spell in Glasgow was mixed rather than transformative, with scouts continuing to assess his overall consistency rather than being swayed by standout moments.

What remains clear is that his availability is attracting attention across several markets. 

Wolves Leading the Race

Wolves, in particular, are believed to see Aarons as a ready-made option to strengthen their right-back area, with his Premier League experience and tactical familiarity fitting their recruitment profile. 

The Midlands club are exploring defensive reinforcements early in the window and views the situation as an opportunity to act decisively.

Jackson Tchatchoua is expected to leave the club this summer, with a move to Italy now emerging as the most likely outcome amid growing Serie A interest. 

Additionally, with Ki-Jana Hoever set to return from his loan at Sheffield United and not viewed as a long-term right-back solution, Wolves are actively targeting a new first-choice option in that position as they reshape their defensive line.

Four Suitors Four Different Scenarios

FC Porto are also in the mix as they look to add top-level European experience ahead of another Champions League campaign, while Villarreal CF are tracking the situation closely as they assess defensive upgrades in La Liga. 

Meanwhile, West Ham, who could also be a Championship outfit, remain attentive, valuing his domestic experience and potential to provide immediate depth in a demanding schedule.

Bournemouth Will Not Let Him Go Easily

For Bournemouth, there is no urgency to sell, and their long-term contract stance ensures they hold firm control of negotiations. 

However, with multiple clubs now beginning to firm up their interest, the situation is expected to move quickly from scouting interest to formal discussions in the coming weeks.