Jake Cassidy signs new Wolves deal
Jake Cassidy today became the latest Wolves player to sign a new contract as the club look to avoid another 'Sam Vokes scenario'.
The 21-year-old striker has penned a one-year deal with a 12-month option in the club's favour – but he will be loaned out to a leading League One club for the new season to continue his education.
Cassidy joins Carl Ikeme, Richard Stearman and Dave Edwards to commit their Molineux futures this summer.
Wolves hope the two years' 'insurance' are enough for Cassidy to show enough quality to persevere with him.
The club are anxious to prevent a repeat of two years ago when Vokes was sold to Burnley for £500,000.
Last season, his 21 goals helped the Clarets win promotion to the Premier League.
"Jake has signed a new deal," said head coach Kenny Jackett.
"Patience is something and players can change from one season to the next, so you have to consider re-signing them.
"It's part of the factor of keeping players. It's something you can do and defer the (eventual career) decision while they gain experience.
"For us as well, centre forward is a different position and you should have options because it's difficult during the season sometimes to get forwards in.
"You can end up paying over the odds to cover yourself - particularly if you've got a chance of achieving something.
"So calling back a younger player from a loan is a good option."
Cassidy hasn't scored in 25 appearances for Wolves and only netted once in 19 games on loan at relegated Tranmere last season.
But Jackett believes he could flourish at a higher-placed League One club.
"If you can get young players a good loan it's worthwhile," he said.
"We've had enough enquiries, so we can loan him out for him to keep improving.
"League One clubs will take Cassidy and we can get a good loan so it's quite an easy decision to keep him.
"He'll do a pre-season here and then we'll consider it.
Wolves are set to sign Fulham winger Mehki Leacock-McLeod for their academy and Under-21s squad.
The 17-year-old, who can play on either flank or as a deep-lying forward, is poised to sign a two-year deal.
Leacock-McLeod will join Barcelona recruit Jordi Ortega.
