Credit: Getty

Exclusive: Gary O'Neil opens Middlesbrough preliminary talks

Founder & Managing Director AUTHORITY Former chief correspondent at Evening Standard, Goal and Press Association with nearly three decades in national, regional and digital news and sports journalism. Wayne directs the network’s news strategy and high-level operations. FOCUS Editorial direction for the 11-site network and newsroom management. THE BRIEF Wayne oversees the network’s editorial standards across the network. He provides the final sign-off on all headline scoops, ensuring content across all platforms meets the standards required for a high-velocity newsroom.

Published on:

10 Nov 2025, 6:42 am

Gary O'Neil is emerging as Middlesbrough's number one target to replace Rob Edwards, sources have told Football Insider.

Edwards is expected to be appointed by Wolves imminently after Boro granted him permission to speak to the Midlands side.

Ironically, O’Neil was in discussions to become the new Wolves boss last week, but eventually withdrew from the process

Sources say that Middlesbrough have now opened preliminary talks with O'Neil, and he is in pole position to get the job at the Riverside Stadium.

Steven Gerrard, who turned down Rangers last month, has also been linked with the Teeside club.

Steven Gerrard on the touchline while managing Aston Villa

Gerrard has been linked with Middlesbrough (Credit: Imago)

Gary O'Neil eyes Middlesbrough return

O'Neil spent four years at Middlesbrough as a player between 2007 and 2011, and made 119 appearances across all competitions.

The 42-year-old has been out of work since he was sacked by Wolves back in December 2024, and has rejected multiple job offers since then.

Interestingly, O'Neil shares the same agent as the departing Edwards, giving Middlesbrough yet another link.

The Teeside outfit currently sit 2nd in the Championship and occupy the final automatic promotion spot to the Premier League.

Middlesbrough face competition for Gary O'Neil

Meanwhile, Southampton are also in talks with O'Neil as Football Insider revealed on Sunday (9 November).

The Saints sacked Will Still earlier this month with the club 17th in the Championship after a wretched start to the season.

Southampton sacked Will Still (Credit: IMAGO)

Sources say that negotiations between O’Neil and the south coast side are now advancing quickly, with the former Wolves manager favourite to take over from Still.

As well as Southampton and Middlesbrough, there are also whispers of strong interest from Norwich City following the dismissal of Liam Manning.

Southampton

Middlesbrough

Gary O'Neil