By Sam Stone

9th Feb, 2023 | 12:10pm

Marcelo Gallardo gives Leeds United answer after contact made

Marcelo Gallardo has rejected a “proposal” from Leeds United after he was contacted by the Yorkshire club, according to journalist, Jorge Baravalle.

The Athletic’s Phil Hay had suggested (The Athletic, 7 February) that Victor Orta was an admirer of the former River Plate manager, who is currently out of work.

However, Baravalle, who works for ESPN, has claimed (via Twitter, 9 February) the 47-year-old hasn’t even considered Leeds’ offer.

“Marcelo Gallardo was contacted by Leeds. The Argentine coach received a proposal but did not consider it. His idea is to start a project from scratch in the middle of the year,” wrote Baravalle.

Not a surprise

After spending eight years at River Plate, Gallardo was always going to take his time when it came to deciding his next job. Having spent a number of years at the South American giants, he certainly has the personality and character to be able to handle the pressures of Elland Road.

However, Leeds’ need for a quick appointment will almost certainly rule the Argentinian out of the running. It’s fair to say the manager hunt has not quite gone to plan thus far, with Carlos Corberan signing a new deal at West Brom and Andoni Iraola reportedly turning down the chance to move to the Premier League (Raul Granado, 8 February).

Simon Jones, writing in the Daily Mail,(9 February, pg 77) claimed Feyenoord boss Arne Slot is also a name under consideration from the board and at present probably looks the most likely name to take the vacant Elland Road hot seat.

The board will be hoping for an appointment before Sunday’s clash against Manchester United, but will potentially be happy for Michael Skubala to oversee one more game if required.

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.