Steven Mouyokolo could recoup £2.5m for Wolves

Wolves will recoup the £2.5m they shelled out for Steven Mouyokolo if the defender moves permanently – but he may yet have a future at Molineux.

The 24-year-old returned to his native France yesterday on a season-long loan with Ligue 1 side FC Sochaux with a view to a permanent move.

But Wolves stress the departure of Mouyokolo doesn't mean they are any closer to signing top target Matt Mills.

Mouyokolo cost £2.5m from Hull when he signed a four-year contract just over a 12 months ago.

But he struggled with injuries and failed to force his way into Mick McCarthy's plans, making just two Premier League starts.

The speed of Mouyokolo's unveiling in France yesterday afternoon following a medical surprised Wolves, given that the paperwork still hadn't been completed last night.

But Wolves believe it is a move that suits all parties, and are confident they will have a better player in 12 months' time – if they decide they want him back.

"As usual, we will stick to our company policy and not divulge financial details, but they have an option to buy and it's a good deal from our point of view," said chief executive Jez Moxey.

"This is about him playing and if he wants to stay in France then they have an option to take him.

"There's no doubt this boy is a real talent."