Leyton Orient set for huge boost involving Richie Wellens | OneFootball

Richie Wellens is reportedly on the verge of committing his long-term future to Leyton Orient

Leyton Orient manager Richie Wellens has attracted interest from rival clubs after last season, but is set to put any leaving talks to bed and sign a new contract at Brisbane Road.

According to journalist Alan Nixon, Richie Wellens is reportedly on the verge of committing his long-term future to Leyton Orient - with a contract that reflects the great work he's done in East London.

The deal comes after Wellens was placed on the shortlist for several Championship and League One vacancies - including interest from Blackburn Rovers, who were prepared to pay £250k in compensation.

Richie Wellens could be one of the best-paid managers in League One

Orient's American ownership group, led by majority shareholder David Gandler, are apparently giving Wellens a contract that would make him one of the highest-paid managers in the third tier.

The new contract shows they are perhaps desperate to keep hold of Wellens, who has guided the O's from League Two strugglers to Championship contenders in just over three years.

This past season saw Orient mount a serious promotion challenge, reaching the League One play-off final at Wembley - before narrowly losing 1-0 to Charlton Athletic.

The run to Wembley included a dramatic penalty shootout win over Stockport County in the semi-final, with Wellens describing his squad as "a special group" of players.

Leyton Orient's offer shows big loyalty to Richie Wellens

The decision to remain at Orient, if he signs it, will reflect both Wellens' loyalty to the club and the ambitious vision outlined by the American owners.

David Gandler's consortium completed a 100% takeover in April 2025 - with plans to improve training facilities, build a new stadium, and make Orient a sustainable Championship club.

The O's current limitations are well-documented, with Wellens himself admitting that the stadium and training ground aren't good enough and that they're "not a Championship club".

Despite these challenges, Orient's transfer model and Wellens' ability to develop talent have created a pathway for growth. The manager's proposed commitment to the project that will be sealed by this new contract would definitely be very welcome news to everyone connected at the club.