WOLVES have got company in their pursuit of Wales international Sam Ricketts.

Though the Molineux men have opened talks with Wanderers about a possible deal for the 31-year-old defender it has now emerged that three other clubs – two from the Championship – have also lodged an interest.

It is understood right-back Ricketts has had his name passed round this summer with Dougie Freedman unable to guarantee him regular first-team football at the Reebok as he heads towards the final year of his contract.

Alex Baptiste is still on target to arrive at the end of the month despite Crystal Palace’s best efforts to hijack the deal, and Dougie Freedman has already hinted he would slot in as first choice on the right side of defence.

Wolves remain the most likely destination for Ricketts and have already made contact with the Whites.

But while Kenny Jackett desperately tries to offload some of his bigger earners to accommodate his former Swansea City charge’s salary, he runs the risk of rival clubs firming up their interest.

Wanderers are in no immediate rush to sell Ricketts, whose versatility has been an invaluable asset in his four seasons at the club. But with a surplus of right-backs on their books, both he and Tyrone Mears appear to be most at risk in the light of Baptiste's impending arrival.

Academy product Joe Riley faces an important season and must prove his fitness, while newcomer Hayden White is also tipped for big things following his arrival from Sheffield Wednesday.

Wanderers' players return to Euxton today to collect their pre-season schedules and some will also be going through preliminary fitness testing at Bolton University.