Wolves squad will be flown over to China this summer, if they win promotion to the Premier League.

Speaking to the Express and Star, Executive Chairman Jeff Shi said: "If we get promoted we will go there this summer. We're doing things on social media in China and I think we have a fan base there, a small fan base. Gradually we're trying to release the Wolves news there."

Wolves currently head the Championship table by three points and are seven clear of local rivals Aston Villa in third. Any promotion to the Premier League would increase their popularity in their owner's native country, opening up commercial opportunities.

"In China the fans know Wolves are doing well from nowhere. I think two or three years ago they only know the big Premier League clubs. The Championship still isn't broadcast live there, but now more and more attention is going to the Championship and Wolves are on top so far. We're trying to build a profile there. It's still low but we need to be in the Premier League and do well there to build a large fan base."

Shi gave a hint at the long-term ambition of owner Fosun at the end of the article: "In China it's a long process. Only when you're in the top six of the Premier League you can have a big fan base."

Whilst top six of the Premier League seems a long way in the distance, the clubs have brought in some big name players this season, such as Manchester United target Ruben Neves and on-loan forward Diogo Jota. It was a Jota goal that gave them some consolation this weekend as they slipped to a 4-1 defeat against Steve Bruce's Aston Villa.

The Verdict

China is a beautiful country, so I'm told, but I doubt the players would be over there on a jolly. The owners seemingly want to increase the commercial viability of their asset and a promotion to the Premier League would make them much bigger news. I'd expect lots of photo calls, press conferences and public relations exercises in a punishing post-season schedule.

As for a top six Premier League finish, you need much more than a few million quid to achieve that. It's nice to have an aim though and with Jorge Mendes seemingly hooking the club up with players, it might not be as far-fetched as it sounds.