Sources: Lopetegui could quit Wolves at end of the season

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:

22 May 2023, 10:30 am

Julen Lopetegui could quit Wolves at the end of the season, sources have told Football Insider.

It is believed the Spaniard is concerned about the funds he will have available to spend in the transfer market this summer.

Lopetegui arrived at Molineux in November 2022 and signed a three-year contract at the club, which runs until June 2025.

Wolves backed the Spaniard in the January transfer window, with six permanent and loan signings joining the Midlands club.

However, a well-placed source has told Football Insider that Lopetegui fears there will be little in the way of transfer funds this summer.

He wants assurances about Wolves' ambitions from club chiefs before committing to continuing in his current role in the 2023-24 campaign.

The former Sevilla and Real Madrid boss worked wonders to keep the Midlands club in the Premier League this season.

Wolves were sat bottom of the English top-flight when Lopetegui took charge at Molineux on 14 November.

They have since become only the fourth side in the Premier League era to survive relegation when bottom of the table on Christmas Day.

Wolves moved to add Joao Gomes, Mario Lemina, Pablo Sarabia, Craig Dawson, Daniel Bentley and Matheus Cunha in the January window.

Cunha joined on an initial loan deal, but an obligation-to-buy clause was activated early in the striker's Molineux stay - meaning the Midlands club will pay Atletico Madrid a reported £43million for his services.

Wolves have moved well clear of relegation danger in recent months and now sit 13th in the table - 10 points clear of the relegation zone with one game to play.

It is believed Lopetegui has already identified key positions for strengthening in the off-season.

Football Insider revealed earlier this month (2 May) that Wolves want to bolster their front line with a prolific goalscorer despite the imminent permanent arrival of Cunha.

In other news, Wolves lead Leeds United in race for red-hot striker.

Wolverhampton Wanderers