Leeds have turned their attention to former Watford boss Javi Gracia in their search for a new manager, according to the Guardian.
Gracia is reportedly one of two managers on Leeds’ new shortlist after failing to convince some of their preferred candidates to join the club.
Rayo Vallecano boss Andoni Iraola rejected the Lilywhites’ approach with his side in the mix for European qualification in the Spanish top flight.
West Bromwich Albion manager Carlos Corberan, who was also on Leeds’ shortlist, renewed his contract with the Championship club to end any speculation about his immediate future.
Leeds have also been rejected by former River Plate manager Marcelo Gallardo who left the Argentinian club at the end of last year.
They have also failed to agree terms with other potential candidates, including Feyenoord’s Arne Slot and former Ajax manager Alfred Schreuder, forcing the club to turn their attention to Gracia.
The Spanish tactician has been without a club since he was sacked from his role at Qatari club Al Sadd.
Gracia had won the league but ultimately lost his job last June after losing in the Emir Cup final, coupled with his side’s awful performance in the AFC Champions League.
He also had a spell with Watford between January 2018 and September 2019. The Hornets reached the 2019 FA Cup final under the Spaniard’s tutelage, but a poor start to the following season saw him dismissed.
Leeds have been without a permanent manager since they sacked Jesse Marsch earlier this month, but their fortunes have not improved.
Michael Skubala, who took charge of the team on an interim basis, has failed to register a win, drawing once and losing two of his three games.
Last weekend’s 1-0 defeat to fellow relegation strugglers Everton has left the club second from bottom on the Premier League table, two points behind 17th-placed Bournemouth.
