Javi Gracia is set to be named the next manager of Leeds United, reports the BBC.
The Spaniard emerged as a candidate to replace Jesse Marsch permanently yesterday. It appears he is getting closer to becoming the Whites’ next boss.
According to Sky Sports, Gracia is expected in Leeds this morning, as he hopes to take over from the American.
The 52-year-old was in charge of Watford when they were in the Premier League.
Gracia joined the Hornets in January 2018 as Marco Silva’s replacement on an 18-month deal.
The former Malaga manager led Watford to an 11th-place finish in the Premier League.
The London club also reached their first FA Cup final in 35 years in his only full season in charge.
Gracia was shown the exit door in September 2019 after a poor start to the season.
Watford won 18 of the 56 matches the former defensive midfielder oversaw as manager.
It is unknown if he will be appointed by Leeds until the end of the season or beyond. The west Yorkshire club face Southampton on Saturday and could have Gracia in charge for the game.
Leeds under-21 manager Michael Skubala has been in interim charge since Marsch’s sacking.
The Whites have lost two of the three league games since the American left on February 6.
They drew the other one and are 19th in the Premier League after 23 games.
A win against bottom-placed Southampton could see them move out of the relegation zone.
Leeds are just two points off safety and Gracia will hope to hit the ground running if appointed.
He has managed Valencia and Al Sadd in Qatar after he was dismissed by Watford.
