Wolves consider Gary O'Neil as Julen Lopetegui replacement

Gary O'Neil has been identified as a potential replacement for Julen Lopetegui if Wolves decide to part ways with their current boss, 90min understands.

Lopetegui saved Wolves from relegation last season after replacing Bruno Lage, eventually guiding them to a 13th-placed finish.

However, Financial Fair Play obligations have hit Wolves hard over the summer, leading to the sales of Ruben Neves, Nathan Collins, Conor Coady and Raul Jimenez.

Lopetegui has made his concerns about Wolves' future known since the end of the season, when he revealed his worries over the club's long-term plans.

READ MORE FROM 90MIN'S TALKING TRANSFERS TEAM

"It's very difficult to compete in the Premier League without investment," he said at the time.

"Despite the club investing this year it has been a very hard year so we have to learn the lesson and do our homework to try to improve the team."

Sources have confirmed to 90min Lopetegui's concerns with Wolves remain but the club's hierarchy feel they have done everything in their means to back the manager and aren't sure they can progress much further.

Lopetegui's exit is now being considering at Molineux, 90min understands, with contact being made with former Bournemouth boss Gary O'Neil as Wolves do their due diligence on potential replacements.

O'Neil performed admirably in charge of the Cherries last season after he replaced Scott Parker, guiding them to safety before highly-regarded Spanish coach Andoni Iraola was announced as his successor.

LISTEN NOW TO 90MIN'S TALKING TRANSFERS PODCAST

On this week's edition of Talking Transfers, part of the 90min podcast network, Toby Cudworth is joined by Graeme Bailey to discuss the next steps in Bayern Munich's Harry Kane hunt, Brighton rejecting another Chelsea bid for Moises Caicedo, who has had the most impressive transfer window so far & more!

If you can't see this embed, click here to listen to the podcast!