Wolverhampton Wanderers are intensifying their search for a new manager following the dismissal of Vitor Pereira, with the club reportedly making an official approach for Middlesbrough boss Rob Edwards. The Premier League side, currently languishing at the bottom of the table, are eager to find a replacement to steer them away from the relegation zone.
Pereira's departure came after a disappointing run of form, culminating in a 3-0 defeat against Fulham. Wolves have managed just two points from their opening ten matches, a dismal record that has prompted the club to act decisively.
The initial favorite for the job was former Wolves manager Gary O'Neil. However, a potential comeback for O'Neil collapsed after he withdrew from negotiations despite an initial agreement. This unexpected turn of events has forced Wolves to reassess their options and accelerate their pursuit of alternative candidates.
Rob Edwards has emerged as the frontrunner for the vacant position. The 42-year-old, who currently manages Championship side Middlesbrough, is reportedly Wolves' top target. Edwards has a history with the club, having made over 100 appearances for Wolves as a player between 2004 and 2008. He also served as an academy coach and had a brief spell as interim manager in 2016.
Edwards' managerial career includes stints at Forest Green Rovers, Watford, and Luton Town. In 2023, he guided Luton Town to the Premier League for the first time, showcasing his ability to achieve promotion. However, he was unable to keep them in the top flight, and they were relegated the following season.
Middlesbrough are said to be reluctant to let Edwards leave, as he was only appointed this past summer and has a three-year contract. He has led the team to third in the Championship standings. Wolves would need to pay compensation to secure his services.
Edwards addressed the speculation linking him to Wolves, stating his focus remains on his job at Middlesbrough. He said he was concentrating on his job, but his wife and daughter were keeping him up to date on the situation.
Other names linked with the Wolves job include former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, Robbie Keane, and Vitor Bruno. However, Wolves reportedly prefer appointing a younger coach. Sam Allardyce has also expressed his interest in helping Wolves avoid relegation.
With the international break approaching after their weekend match against Chelsea, Wolves are under pressure to make a swift appointment. In the meantime, Under-21 coach James Collins and Under-18 boss Richard Walker are expected to lead the team for the Chelsea game.
The new manager will face a significant challenge in turning Wolves' fortunes around. The team is currently bottom of the Premier League, and the new coach will need to address the team's poor form and lift morale.
