Wolves Goalkeeper dumps for Championship for a Premier League move.

Wolves goalkeeper Dan Bentley has reached an agreement to join newly-promoted Premier League club Coventry City, bringing his time at Molineux to an end.

Despite still having 12 months remaining on his Wolves contract, the club have agreed to let the 33-year-old depart on a free transfer. Bentley is expected to provide experienced cover at Coventry rather than immediately becoming their first-choice goalkeeper.

Bentley arrived at Wolves from Bristol City in 2023 and has largely occupied a back-up role, spending much of his time as either second or third choice. He was given an extended run during pre-season, though, before starting Wolves’ opening two matches of the new campaign.

Wolves are comfortable with the decision to release Bentley, with the move allowing them to reduce their wage bill while also giving the club an opportunity to restructure their goalkeeping options.

Jose Sa is expected to take his place between the posts against Preston on Saturday, while Sam Johnstone could return to the matchday squad after recovering from shoulder surgery.

There is still considerable uncertainty surrounding Wolves’ goalkeeping situation. Both Sa and Johnstone could potentially leave before the transfer window closes if suitable offers arrive and the club can secure replacements.

At the same time, both goalkeepers are willing to remain at Molineux if no moves materialise. However, each player is understood to want the number-one position should they stay, potentially forcing Wolves into a major decision over who leads the department.

Bentley’s exit is also expected to create a vacancy for an experienced third-choice goalkeeper. Former Wolves favourite John Ruddy is reportedly being considered for a return after becoming a free agent following his departure from Newcastle at the end of last season.

Wolves technical director Matt Jackson paid tribute to Bentley’s contribution, describing him as an outstanding professional who handled a difficult role with great maturity.

Jackson praised the goalkeeper’s leadership, character and professionalism, while also highlighting the influence he had behind the scenes at Compton.

He explained that Bentley was regularly someone teammates could turn to for advice and an honest assessment of the mood within the dressing room.

Jackson also pointed out that Wolves already have two experienced goalkeepers capable of stepping into the role Bentley occupied during the summer, when Sa was away at the World Cup and Johnstone was recovering from surgery.

Although Bentley’s departure will be felt around the club, Jackson believes the transfer represents a positive outcome for everyone involved.

He added that Bentley will always be welcomed as a friend of Wolves and that, on this occasion, the move appeared to be the right decision for both the player and the club.