Wolves sign Castillo, Maierhofer

Premier League newboys Wolverhampton signed Ecuador midfielder Segundo Castillo on a season’s loan from Red Star Belgrade on Monday.

Castillo spent last season on loan at Everton, making eight league appearances, but the Toffees opted not to sign him on a permanent basis.

The 27-year-old is Wolves boss Mick McCarthy’s eighth signing since the end of last season as he seeks to establish the Molineux outfit in the English top-flight.

Wolves have an option to sign Castillo permanently when the loan expires and Jez Moxey, the club’s chief operating officer, said: “We are delighted to announce Segundo as our latest signing.

“He is a player who arrives with extensive experience at international level as well as one of the leading Premier League clubs in Everton.”

Wolves have also clinched the signing of Austria striker Stefan Maierhofer from Rapid Vienna on a three-year deal.

Maierhofer, who scored 23 goals in 37 games for Rapid last season, has joined for an undisclosed fee and the deal includes an option for the club to extend the contract with the 6ft 7in frontman for a further season.

“We are delighted to bring Stefan in as our ninth new arrival this summer,” said Moxey.

“He is a player who has been a regular goalscorer for Rapid Vienna in recent seasons and helped the club qualify for the Europa League by contributing to their win against Aston Villa last week.

“Stefan had been targeted by Mick to add competition for places in the striking department, and once again we are pleased that the board and chairman Steve Morgan have been able to support the manager.”