The Adelaide Advertiser had reported Wellington had made 55-year-old Pearce an offer, with co-coaches Des Buckingham and Chris Greenacre’s futures unclear at the club.

However, Nix general manager David Dome denied to reports on Newstalk ZB on Wednesday, with the club also putting out a statement.

“Speculation linking former Premier League or International managers with Wellington Phoenix shows the high esteem the club is held in overseas as well as the rising reputation of the Hyundai A-League,” the statement read.

“While the club is flattered by the calibre of some of the coaches linked with the position it has always been our longstanding position not to comment on speculation.

“The Chairman, football committee and General Manager of Phoenix remain satisfied with the progress being made thus far with several very strong candidates both internal and external, local and overseas having been interviewed and are confident of a full announcement being made within timelines previously outlined.”

Buckingham and Greenacre had only taken over as interim co-coaches following Ernie Merrick’s mid-season departure, with Wellington undertaking a full process to find a new boss.

Pearce hasn’t managed since leaving Nottingham Forest in 2015 and it’s understood his CV was circulated around A-League clubs by his agent.

Dome said Wellington had received Pearce’s CV but decided against pursuing him.

Pearce was England caretaker manager in 2012, while he also led Great Britain at the 2012 London Olympics.

He also previously managed Manchester City and Forest, while he won 78 caps for England.