Rob Edwards: Middlesbrough reject Wolves’ request to speak to their coach about the vacant head coach position

Middlesbrough have rejected an offer from Wolves to speak to manager Rob Edwards.

BBC Sport reported on Thursday that the Premier League bottom side have made initial contact with Championship club Boro regarding their interest in Edwards.

But Middlesbrough have rejected that request as Wolves seek a replacement for Vitor Pereira, who was sacked on Sunday after 10 games without a win to start the Premier League season.

Following Pereira’s sacking, BBC Sport reported that former Luton manager Edwards was among the leading contenders to replace the 57-year-old Portuguese, alongside former coach Gary O’Neill.

Wolves held talks with O’Neill but the 42-year-old pulled out of the race on Monday.

Former Wolves player Edwards, also 42, has long been a strong candidate and has emerged as the favourite.

However, his potential appointment is now uncertain, with Middlesbrough, who sit third in the Championship, determined to keep hold of Edwards.

It is understood that Wolves will be required to pay a significant compensation fee to Middlesbrough to secure Edwards, who only took over at the Riverside Stadium in June.

Wolverhampton is at the bottom of the standings with only two points after 10 matches, eight points behind Burnley, who is in 17th place.

They will face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.