According to Football Insider, Leeds United are lining up a move for Paul Heckingbottom, with the Barnsley boss emerging as a surprise candidate to replace Thomas Christiansen at Elland Road.

Christiansen departed Elland Road late last night, with Leeds ending the 44-year-old’s tenure following Saturday’s humiliation to Cardiff City in the Sky Bet Championship.

Leeds were defeated 4-1 by Cardiff, which means the club’s wait for a 2018 victory stretches another week, with Christiansen falling following his latest defeat.

Heckingbottom has emerged as a candidate to replace Christiansen now at Elland Road, after 40-year-old’s impressive spell with Barnsley, who he has helped to establish in the Championship.

The Oakwell boss delivered a promotion for the Tykes, before an impressive debut campaign in the Championship saw Barnsley finish 14th, way clear of the division’s relegation battle.

The positive impact Heckingbottom has made in the Championship has seen Leeds show an interest in him, with Andrea Radrizzani looking to make a swift appointment this week ahead of a trip to Sheffield United on Saturday lunchtime.

Despite a miserable run of form, Leeds still have play-off ambitions, but are facing an uphill battle to break back into the top-six, with the Whites now seven points adrift.

The Verdict  

Heckingbottom might not be the high-profile name that Leeds’ supporters want to see appointed, but he is a more than capable manager at Championship level.

His record at Oakwell has been impressive, and if he is given the resources at Elland Road, he could be a success.

It might be seen as a risk by Leeds, but could be one that pays off.

Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!