Speaking on the latest episode of The Molinuex View podcast (March 17), The Athletic;s Wolves correspondent Tim Spiers has issued an update on the club's search for a new sporting director.

What did he say?

Well, the west Midlands outfit are looking for a replacement for Kevin Thelwell following his exit to the New York Red Bulls last month, but there has been no progression with it as things stand.

However, the current break from proceedings until April 3, as things stand, could allow Fosun and Co to try and sort things out ahead of the summer transfer window.

When asked the question on the podcast, Spiers said (48:39): "I think the search is speeding up now, and they’re definitely keen and hopeful of getting someone in time for the next window in the summer.

"I think you’ve got to say with what’s going on at the moment, they’ve got a better chance to be working on that and doing that. So they’ve started to identify a shortlist now and interviews will start fairly soon if they haven’t already."

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Crucial appointment

This is a big decision for Wolves, no doubt about that.

Thelwell took up the role in 2016 at Molineux, and was a hugely successful figure at the club in general having worked in a number of different positions, including being head of recruitment.

Whoever the new director is will likely be working closely with people like super-agent Jorge Mendes when it comes to bringing new players to Wolves in the future, and someone with a bit of pedigree could be desirable in those terms.

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Indeed, with Wolves in the last 16 of the Europa League and currently lying sixth in the Premier League standings, it is clear to see their growth and the potential they have for the future.

Sorting out this appointment now rather than closer to the summer could be a huge benefit, and fans will hope Spiers is right that this process can now be accelerated.

In other Wolves news, Tim Spiers has issued an update on Patrick Cutrone's future given the latest situation...