Wolverhampton Wanderers are on the hunt for a new manager after parting ways with Gary O’Neil on Sunday, following a crushing last-minute home defeat to relegation rivals Ipswich Town.
Al-Shabab boss Vítor Pereira has emerged as the frontrunner to take over, with Wolves moving quickly to secure the Portuguese coach.
Wolves reportedly approached Al-Shabab over the weekend and have informed the Saudi club they are willing to pay Pereira’s release clause, believed to be around €1m.
While personal terms are yet to be finalised, they are not expected to be a stumbling block.
Pereira: ‘My Future Will Be in the Premier League’
In an interview with GIVEMESPORT back in September, Pereira revealed his ambition to manage in one of Europe’s top leagues, hinting at a Premier League move.
The former Porto and Olympiacos boss admitted he had come close to managing in England before, including talks with Everton.
“I was very, very close to signing for Everton,” Pereira said.
“I was ready to start working there. I travelled over and stayed for one week. I had four meetings with the club, but in the end, it was not to be.
“My career so far has been a big journey, and I am in love with beautiful football. I really believe my next move will be to a top league in the world: the Premier League, La Liga, or Serie A. This is my target for the future, and I think it’s just a question of time.”
Pereira’s confidence in his ability to break into the Premier League could soon be realised, with discussions between Wolves and the 55-year-old reportedly at an advanced stage.
A swift conclusion to negotiations is expected, paving the way for Pereira to take over at Molineux.
Wolves’ interest in Pereira aligns with their established history of relying on Portuguese talent.
The club previously benefited from standout players such as Rúben Neves, Diogo Jota, and João Moutinho, as well as the managerial success of Nuno Espírito Santo.
Although Pereira has never managed in England and has spent the past three years away from European football, his track record includes a notable stint at Porto and 25 matches in charge of Turkish giants Fenerbahçe. He now looks poised to follow in the footsteps of his compatriots at Wolves.
If appointed, Pereira will face an immediate challenge to steer Wolves away from the relegation zone.
A crucial clash against Leicester City awaits next Sunday, a game that could leave Wolves six points adrift of safety if results go against them.
The road ahead looks daunting, with Wolves set to face Chelsea, Liverpool, and Newcastle United away, alongside hosting Arsenal and Aston Villa. Pereira’s arrival, if confirmed, will mark the beginning of a pivotal chapter in the club’s fight for Premier League survival.
