Rayo Vallecano manager Andoni Iraola has rejected an approach from Leeds United to take over at Elland Road, 90min understands.
The Premier League outfit are on the hunt for a new manager following their decision to sack American Jesse Marsch last week and have already been knocked back by their first choice Carlos Corberan, who signed a new contract with West Brom instead.
90min revealed earlier this week that Iraola, a former Athletic Club player under Leeds favourite Marcelo Bielsa, was among the alternatives for the role, but sources have now confirmed that he has turned down Leeds’s offer.
A group of Leeds officials travelled to Spain for talks with Iraola, who brought Vallecano up from Spain’s second tier and has led them up to fifth in La Liga this season, but the 40-year-old was not convinced by the proposal and has declined to move to Elland Road at this time.
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Leeds have not ruled out making a second offer to Iraola but have also began to consider other options, which include Feyenoord boss Arne Slot. 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.
The group of Michael Skubala, Paco Gallardo and Chris Armas took charge of Leeds during Wednesday’s dramatic 2-2 draw with Manchester United, but the hope was that a permanent boss would be in place for Sunday’s next meeting with the Red Devils.
However, with Corberan and Iraola both out of the running currently, Leeds may remain under the watchful eyes of Skubala, Gallardo and Armas for a little longer.
Credit: 90min.com
