Leeds United eye shock move for Sam Allardyce as replacement for Javi Gracia

Leeds United have identified Sam Allardyce as a top candidate for the managerial position, with current boss Javi Gracia on the verge of being sacked, according to The Athletic.

Gracia, who took over at Elland Road in February, has failed to improve Leeds’ form, with the heavy defeat against Bournemouth on Sunday marking his seventh loss in 12 games.

United are in talks to dismiss the Spaniard and are looking to appoint a third manager of the season.

Allardyce has emerged as the front-runner, with the club’s chief executive Angus Kinnear having previously worked with him at West Ham United.

The 68-year-old has been out of management since leaving West Bromwich Albion in 2021.

The former Three Lions manager will have a huge task on his hands if he moves to Elland Road, with the Whites currently one place above the relegation zone.

The run-in also makes it more difficult, with Leeds set to face Manchester United, Newcastle United, West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur.

Leeds were tipped to make a big impact this season with one of the most exciting squads, but they have massively fallen short of expectations.

Victor Orta, the club’s football director, could also follow Gracia to the exit door as a result of the relegation battle for the second straight season.

United have been winless in their last five games, and they await an implausible task of stopping league leaders Manchester City this weekend.

It remains to be seen whether Gracia will be in charge or a new manager will replace him for the clash.