Wolves make former Aston Villa assistant ‘number one target’ to replace Bruno Lage

Wolverhampton Wanderers have reportedly made former Aston Villa assistant coach Michael Beale their number one target to replace Bruno Lage.

According to The Athletic, Wolves are expected to make contact with Beale’s current side Queens Park Rangers to discuss his potential release. The report states that Beale’s contract is believed to include a release clause and that Wolves are ‘extremely impressed’ be Beale’s work and references.

Beale was Steven Gerrard’s number two at Rangers and last season at Aston Villa. He also used to be in Charlton’s academy as a player, and he has also coached at Chelsea, Liverpool and Sao Paulo.

During his first role as a manager with QPR this season, Beale has so far guided the west London club to sixth in the division and is well thought of in the game.

Wolves are reportedly yet to make contact with QPR about a potential deal.

Former Sevilla manager Julen Lopetegui was believed to be Wolves’ first choice to replace Lage at Molineux, but the Spaniard reportedly turned down the chance to coach the West Midlands side.

As per Spanish football expert Guillem Balague via BBC Sport, Lopetegui, who was sacked by Sevilla, rejected the chance to become the Old Gold’s next boss due to family reasons. Balague states that the ex-Real Madrid manager’s father is unwell and that has played a factor in the decision to turn Wolves’ offer down.

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