Wolverhampton Wanderers have reportedly agreed a deal to appoint Vitor Pereira as their new manager, following the dismissal of Gary O’Neil. According to reports on Tuesday, the Premier League club will pay around one million euros ($1 million) to bring Pereira, who is currently managing Saudi Pro League side Al-Shabab, to the English top flight.
Sky Sports has confirmed that personal terms have been finalized, and the 56-year-old Portuguese coach is expected to sign a one-and-a-half-year contract with Wolves. Pereira is expected to fly to England on Tuesday, with official confirmation of the appointment anticipated within the next 24 hours.
Pereira, who has managed several high-profile clubs during his career, is no stranger to success. He won two Primeira Liga titles with FC Porto and secured a Greek Super League title with Olympiakos. His extensive managerial experience also includes a close call with Everton in 2022, where he was considered a top contender to replace Rafael Benitez as the club’s manager. Now, he will take the reins at Wolves, a club currently struggling in the Premier League.
Wolves’ decision to sack O’Neil follows a difficult run of form. The club has endured four consecutive defeats, leaving them second from the bottom in the Premier League standings with just nine points from 16 games. O’Neil, who took over in August 2023 after Julen Lopetegui’s departure, had signed a new four-year deal earlier this year. However, after a disappointing start to the season, the club decided to part ways with him.
Pereira’s first challenge will be a crucial match on Sunday, when Wolves face Leicester City, another team fighting relegation. Leicester currently sit five points ahead of Wolves, making this a pivotal game in the battle for Premier League survival.