Leeds United have not ‘ruled out’ second approach for Andoni Iraola
Leeds United have not “ruled out” the possibility of making a second approach for Rayo Vallecano coach Andoni Iraola, report 90min.
Various reports emerged on Thursday morning (9 February) suggesting the 40-year-old had turned down the opportunity and that the La Liga side have blocked Leeds’ approach.
Sky Sports suggested (9 February) Iraola was open to a move to Elland Road, with the La Liga club preventing a move from taking place.
However, Spanish journalist Raul Granado claimed the Rayo Vallecano boss had turned down the chance to move to Elland Road.
Despite these roadblocks, 90min report (9 February) that Leeds haven’t ruled out another attempt to lure the 40-year-old to West Yorkshire.
“Leeds have not ruled out making a second offer to Iraola but have also begun to consider other options, which include Feyenoord boss Arne Slot,” they wrote.
“The Dutchman has led his side to the top of the Eredivisie table, having lost just one game all season to date, and interest in his services has been expressed.”
Mess
This manager saga is turning into a bit of a mess for the board. They potentially thought it would be a lot easier to bring a manager to Elland Road, regardless of whether they’re in a job or not. Iraola looks like a long shot at present. There seem to be plenty of issues preventing his move from occurring.
If the board are desperate to land the Spaniard it could take time. A quick and shrewd appointment is what’s required and the club don’t want to become fixated on one target who is potentially unattainable. Arne Slott would seem like the most realistic candidate at present. The 44-year-old hasn’t ruled out a move and has worked wonders with Feyenoord in Holland.
Right now, an appointment being made before the Manchester United game seems extremely unlikely. However, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Michael Skubala was extremely unfortunate not to see his side pick up three points at Old Trafford and the under-21s manager can certainly be trusted to put a competitive side out at Elland Road.
In other Leeds United news, click here to see breaking, around-the-clock updates on Leeds’ search for a new manager in our interactive live blog.