Exclusive: Wolves and Tondela holding up Joe Hodge's move to Scottish Premiership

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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 following their relegation from Portugal's 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.

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

Championship outfit Wolves inserted a sell-on clause into Hodge's contract when he left England for Portugal, and this is proving to be a stumbling block.

It is believed Wolves and Tondela could come to a compromise to ensure a transfer goes ahead, but a move could collapse if the situation is not resolved.

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

Hodge was a key member of Man City's academy sides, 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 drew 1-1 with Canada in a friendly 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 is a popular member of the Tondela squad, thanks to his high tempo, box-to-box style of play.

He played a key 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 the second tier following a 17th-place finish.

With clubs circling for Hodge following Tondela's relegation, it is likely a transfer materialises this summer, and he is willing to make the move to Scotland should his contract situation be resolved.