Sam Stone

Tue 14 February 2023 20:45, UK

Leeds United have made an “informal approach” for Al Gharafa Pedro Martins, according to Zerozero journalist, Pedro da Cunha.

Da Cunha has suggested (Zerozero, 14 February) the Elland Road board are set to hold further talks with the 52-year-old in the coming days.

It’s understood the former Olympiacos boss is keen to make the move to England and has dreamed of managing in the Premier League.

“The current coach of Al Gharafa has already been informally approached and talks will resume in the coming days,” wrote the Zerozero journalist.

“It’s the wish of much of Leeds’ management and certainly of the manager himself. Despite being fully involved in the Qatari project, including the two recent victories, Pedro Martins has already publicly assumed the dream of training in England.”

Out of the blue

This is a rumour which has come out of the blue and would be an appointment which would divide opinion amongst Leeds’ fans. He’s an experienced coach but hasn’t managed in a big European league to date, furthermore he is currently managing in Qatar, which won’t have been the best preparation before taking the vacant Elland Road job.

Leeds’ manager hunt has turned into a complete mess. There’s no doubting that a change was required in West Yorkshire, but the board’s lack of success so far is a big concern.

Now a short term solution looks like the most sensible move from the board. Andoni Iraola, Carlos Corberan and Arne Slot have all turn down the chance to take the job, an it appears waiting till the summer will be the smart move.

Premier League survival is the main focus and potentially giving Michael Skubala the job until the end of the season could be the smartest move.

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.

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