Wolves sign Wayne Hennessey on five-year deal

Wolves today tied down keeper Wayne Hennessey on a five-year deal in their latest piece of housekeeping.

The Wales international had two years left on his existing deal, but at 23, the club believe the keeper has plenty of potential and have safeguarded his future.

There has been speculation surrounding Hennessey's future after he lost his place to Marcus Hahnemann last November as he came under the spotlight following the heavy defeats to Arsenal and Chelsea.

The 6ft 5ins shotstopper was rumoured to have attracted a £2m bid from Liverpool before Rafael Benitez moved on earlier in the summer.

But Wolves are adamant there was no offer for the Anglesey-born keeper - or even contact at any level from the Reds — and hope the signing of the new contract puts the speculation to bed.

"I'm delighted Wayne has signed his new contract," said boss Mick McCarthy.

"We're blessed to have three very good goalkeepers who are currently fit and I believe Wayne is a top class young keeper who will also get better.

Protected

"This is really good news for the club to have secured one of its best young players and one who will be keen to play a big part in the future."

Wolves have acted to protect Hennessey's value in the transfer market if he were to move on any stage.

Chief executive Jez Moxey added: "We've always said we pay very close attention to contract management with our players.

"Marcus Hahnemann did extremely well, but Wayne will get better and will no doubt be pushing hard to regain his place."

Homegrown Hennessey, who was released from Manchester City as a youngster, was one of the stars of the 2004-05 FA Youth Cup run to the semi-finals and made his debut in the 2007 Championship play-off semi-final against Albion after Matt Murray dislocated his shoulder.

Becoming an immediate first choice, he made 105 appearances until he lost his place before Christmas and was on the bench for the rest of the season as Wolves ensured another season in the Barclays Premier League.

Meanwhile, reports today linked Wolves with Guinea international midfielder Kevin Constant.

The 23-year-old Frenchman, who has scored 10 goals in 40 games for Ligue 2 Chateauroux, is available on a free transfer.

By Tim Nash