Alfred Schreuder emerges as major contender for vacant Leeds job

Leeds United’s search for a permanent replacement for Jesse Marsch has produced another surprise potential candidate, with Alfred Schreuder now on the club’s shortlist.

According to the Daily Telegraph reporter Mike McGrath, the former Ajax manager has emerged as a major contender for the vacant managerial role.

Schreuder was sacked as Ajax manager two weeks ago following a string of unimpressive results that left the Eredivisie heavyweights way off the number-one spot while looking to defend their league crown.

The 50-year-old’s side went seven consecutive games without a win, culminating in the club’s worst-ever record in over 20 years.

His last game in charge of Ajax came in a 1-1 draw against relegation strugglers Volendam which ultimately cost the Dutch tactician his job just six months after his arrival.

However, Schreuder may not be out of a job for long, with Leeds now turning their attention to him amidst their search for a new manager.

The Lilywhites have not found it easy replacing Marsch, who was sacked earlier this month after a series of poor results that has seen the club scrambling to retain top-flight status.

Leeds have already been rejected by former River Plate manager Marcelo Gallardo who left his role as manager of the Argentinian club at the end of last year.

Rayo Vallecano boss Andoni Iraola has also turned down the chance to join the Lilywhites with his side in the mix for European qualification in La Liga this term.

West Bromwich Albion manager Carlos Corberan, who was also on Leeds’ shortlist, signed a new deal with the Championship club to end any speculation about his immediate future.

Feyenoord manager Arne Slot was mentioned, but the 44-year-old is uninterested in leaving his treble-chasing side for Leeds.

They could now turn their attention to Schreuder, who was at Elland Road to watch the Lilywhites take on Manchester United.

The former Club Brugge manager could prove a shrewd acquisition by Leeds, who are in severe danger of dropping into the Championship at the end of the season.