EXCLUSIVE: Wolves holding up Joe Hodge's Scottish Premiership transfer

Exclusive

Ronan Murphy | Social Media

Republic of Ireland international Joe Hodge's proposed transfer to the Scottish Premiership could be on the brink of collapse due to a contract dispute between Wolves and Tondela.

The 23-year-old looks set to leave Tondela after their relegation from the Portuguese Primeira Liga, but FootballTransfers understands a potential move to Scotland is in jeopardy.

Hodge moved to Tondela from Wolves in the summer of 2025, having featured six times in the Premier League as well as spending time on loan at QPR and Huddersfield.

STATS

Joe Hodge

DM, M (C)

Tondela

Joe Hodge

DM, M (C)

Tondela

All Tournaments

2025/26

• 28

  Games

• 1

  Goals

• 1

  Assists

View all stats

His performances in 2025-26 have drawn the attention of a number of suitors, including teams from the Primeira Liga, but a move to Scotland looked to be on the cards before negotiations stalled.

Wolves inserted a sell-on clause into Hodge's contract when he left England for Portugal, and this is proving a stumbling block in his next move.

It is believed the clubs could come to a compromise to ensure the transfer proceeds successfully, but a move could collapse if this situation is not resolved.

Hodge played alongside Palmer and Rogers in Man City's youth setup

Hodge was a key member of Man City's development teams, playing alongside Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and Liam Delap in the 3-2 FA Youth Cup final victory over Chelsea in 2020.

The midfielder, who can operate as a No.6 and a No. 8, also progressed through Ireland's youth ranks, captaining the Boys in Green's Under-21 side.

Hodge then made his senior international debut in June as Ireland started their preparations for Euro 2028, which will be partly hosted in Dublin as well as Hodge's home town of Manchester.

He came off the bench as Heimir Hallgrimsson's side earned a 1-1 draw with Canada in Montreal.

Hodge has previously shown a willingness to maximise his game time, going on loan to League of Ireland side Derry City - while on the books at Man City - to experience senior football rather than playing in the reserve or youth leagues.

Hodge's stint in Portugal proves he is adaptable to new environments and he was a popular member of the Tondela squad, owing to a high tempo, box-to-box style of play.

He played a crucial role in Tondela earning impressive draws with Portuguese giants Benfica and Sporting CP last season, though he was unable to prevent his side from dropping into second tier.

With clubs circling following Tondela's relegation to Liga Portugal 2, it is likely that a transfer materialises this summer, and Hodge is willing to make the move to Scotland should his contract issues be resolved.

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