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Leeds begin talks with ex-Watford boss Javi Gracia to take over Elland Road… but Rafa Benítez is NOT running for the role as he is hoping for a different project.
- Leeds still have not replaced Jesse Marsch two weeks after sacking him
- They were happy to keep interim boss Michael Skubala in charge
- Now they could turn to Javi Gracia after falling into the relegation zone
Leeds United have started talks with Javi Gracia as they look to appoint a manager with Premier League experience to guide them to safety.
Former Watford manager Gracia is one of two names being considered by Leeds, but Rafa Benítez, the former Liverpool manager, is not in the running because he is hoping for a different project.
Leeds had been willing to leave Michael Skubala in caretaker role until the end of the season, however, after Saturday’s loss to Everton plunged them into the quagmire of relegation, and with a crucial game against Southampton this weekend, they have moved to bring someone. with more experience.
They are offering a four-month contract with bonuses to keep the team in the Premier League.
Director of football Victor Orta is under increasing pressure to find the right man, a fortnight after the club sacked Jesse Marsch.
Leeds could bring in former Watford manager Javi Gracia until the end of the season
The club had been keen to keep Michael Skubala (right) for the remainder of the campaign, but sporting director Victor Orta (left) feels they need more experience to avoid relegation.
After failing to tempt candidates such as Rayo Vallecano’s Andoni Iraola, West Brom’s Carlos Corberan and Feyenoord’s Arne Slot, they spoke to former Ajax boss Alfred Schreuder only to change their minds following poor reaction from fans.
They have now targeted two more names with Free Grace after leaving Qatari club Al-Sadd and understood that they are willing to accept a short-term deal.
The 52-year-old coached Watford from January 2018 to September 2019 and was a popular figure with the staff.
Grace guided Watford to Premier League safety and led them to the second FA Cup final in their history.
However, he was sacked the following September, like so many Watford managers, after a poor start to the season.
His last job saw him retain the league title with Al-Sadd after taking over as manager from Xavi, who had left for Barcelona. Gracia has also trained in Valencia, Malaga and Rubin Kazan.