Leeds United remain locked in interviews aimed at securing a new head coach, but Brendan Rodgers appears to be out of the process after firmly stating he has no intention of being involved in the Championship.
Rodgers, who is close to becoming Celtic manager for a second time, was the preferred option for the Leeds vacancy in the eyes of the club’s future owner 49ers Enterprises, but discussions at Elland Road have focused on other candidates, such as the former Leicester boss City are against the idea of coaching in the EFL.
Leeds are almost three weeks into the season and trying to decide on a permanent head coach following their relegation from the Premier League and the end of Sam Allardyce’s short tenure in charge.
The recruitment drive has been delayed by the suspension of 49ers Enterprises, which was negotiating a deal to buy United from current chairman Andrea Radrizzani.
A takeover agreement was reached between the two sides last Friday, however, and while the purchase of 49ers Enterprises is still subject to EFL approval and other formalities, Radrizzani’s willingness to sell has allowed the group to step up its search for a head coach.
The latest interviews are scheduled for early next week with West Bromwich Albion boss Carlos Corberan and former Norwich City manager Daniel Farke, recently sacked by German side Borussia Mönchengladbach, two names in the frame. Scott Parker is also being considered, but Leicester are also considering making a bid for him.
Leeds face a tight timeframe in which to complete the process with most of their senior players due to return for the start of pre-season on July 2.
Rodgers was sacked by Leicester in April as the club headed for relegation and is in the market for a new job. But he last managed in the Championship in 2011 and has spent the last few days mulling over a bid to return to Celtic Park.