By Sam Stone

12th Feb, 2023 | 9:40am

Leeds United ready move to hire Steven Gerrard as new manager amid 49ers takeover update at Elland Road

Leeds United are plotting a move to hire Steven Gerrard as their new boss as a fresh 49ers takeover update emerges, report The Sunday People.

The Elland Road board have seen approaches for three manager targets knocked back, with Andoni Iraola, Arne Slot and Carlos Corberan all turning down the vacant role in West Yorkshire.

Gerrard has since emerged as a candidate, with avoiding relegation becoming a “non-negotiable” requirement to ensure the 49ers takeover goes through.

“Leeds United are plotting a move to install Steven Gerrard as their new boss,” they wrote (back page & page 63, 12 February)

“Avoiding relegation is a non-negotiable for Leeds to ensure their planned summer takeover by the 49ers enterprises goes through.”

Mess

Victor Orta’s quest for a manager is turning into a mess. The Elland Road chief potentially wasn’t expecting the task to be this rigorous, particularly when it comes to hiring a manager who is already in a job. It’s fair to say Leeds’ fans would be fairly uninspired by the appointment of Gerrard.

The former Aston Villa was rightfully sacked in the West Midlands and did little to prove his ability to take charge of a Premier League club. He had success with Rangers, but it is clear managing in Scotland is an entirely different challenge to the one in England’s top flight.

Michael Skubala will be more than capable of handling the side if required. Still, the board will be hoping for a new manager to arrive before Saturday’s huge relegation clash against Everton at Goodison Park. The Toffees have picked up under Sean Dyche and will be a stern test.

Hopefully, a new man will be in the dugout faced with the unenviable task of keeping Leeds in the Premier League.

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