Wolverhampton Wanderers have been dealt a significant setback in their hunt for a new head coach, with Middlesbrough formally rejecting their approach for Rob Edwards.
The Premier League's bottom club, now managerless and with just two points this season, is facing increasing difficulty attracting top candidates to replace the sacked Vitor Pereira.
Another Blow for Struggling Wolves
Reports confirmed on Thursday that Middlesbrough have blocked Wolves' attempt to speak to their head coach, Rob Edwards. The Riverside club, currently sitting third in the Championship, denied their Premier League counterparts permission to open negotiations.
This is a particular blow given Edwards' history with Wolves, having been both a former player and a youth team coach. Although he had previously distanced himself from the vacancy, talkSPORT suggested a potential openness to the move. However, Boro's firm rejection has halted any progress.
In a further intriguing development, the same outlet reports that Middlesbrough have cancelled their pre-match press conference ahead of a Championship fixture against Birmingham City, potentially indicating a shift in the situation.
This rejection follows Gary O'Neil's decision to withdraw from the running, leaving Wolves with a rapidly shrinking list of viable options to lead their fight for top-flight survival.
Who is in the Frame for the Molineux Job?
With primary targets proving elusive, attention turns to other potential candidates. One name frequently linked is Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman is currently without a club after a brief stint at Bayer Leverkusen.
Initial reports indicated he was not keen on the role, but contrasting claims from The Standard suggest he is ready for a return to English football. His candidacy is complicated by reports he has also held talks with Ajax regarding their own managerial vacancy.
Another former Wolves player, Robbie Keane, has reportedly applied for the position. The current Ferencváros boss has won trophies in Hungary and Israel but lacks experience in a major European league. This opportunity would represent the most significant challenge of his managerial career.
The Jorge Mendes Connection and Other Contenders
Wolves' well-documented links to super-agent Jorge Mendes continue to influence their search. Mendes is known to have proposed Sergio Conceicao, the former Porto and AC Milan manager who currently leads Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad.
While Conceicao possesses considerable pedigree, he has no prior experience in English football, and it is uncertain if he would leave a lucrative contract in Saudi Arabia for a relegation battle at Molineux.
Former manager Bruno Lage has also been mentioned in connection with a potential return to the club.
These are deeply concerning times for Wolves. The urgency for a managerial appointment is paramount, but the ideal candidate has yet to materialise. The club's hierarchy, led by Jeff Shi, must act decisively and quickly if they are to have any realistic hope of preserving their Premier League status.
