Leeds United’s bid to bring Marcelo Bielsa in as the club’s next head-coach is edging ever closer with the 62-year-old signing a deal to take over at Elland Road.
According to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Bielsa has agreed terms with Leeds and looks set to take charge at Elland Road ahead of a return to pre-season training on June 25th.
Bielsa still needs to secure a UK work permit, along with the large backroom staff he plans to bring with him to Elland Road, but his appointment is now looking nailed on after weeks of negotiations.
The 62-year-old is set to fly to England next Saturday, giving him six weeks to prepare for the start of the 2018/19 Sky Bet Championship season.
Bielsa has previously managed on the international stage, taking charge of Argentina and Chile, before coaching in Europe.
He has taken charge of Athletic Bilbao, Marseille and Lille, but will now test himself in English football for the first time at Elland Road.
The deal to bring Bielsa to Elland Road will see him earn a reported £2m a year, which will make him the highest paid coach in Leeds’ 99-year history.
The length of contract Bielsa will sign is not confirmed by the YEP.
The Verdict
Leeds appear to have landed their first choice target this summer, with Bielsa undoubtedly and upgrade on Paul Heckingbottom.
This is an exciting appointment at Elland Road, with Bielsa amongst the biggest names to have ever taken charge of the Whites.
A deal has taken time to agree, which has been frustrating, but with Bielsa set to fly to Leeds for pre-season, plans can finally be put in place ahead of the 2018/19 season.
Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!