Andoni Iraola to Tottenham takes dramatic new twist – ‘he will sign’
Bournemouth are confident Andoni Iraola will sign a new contract despite interest from Tottenham, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the Cherries have been doing everything possible to tie him down to a new long-term deal at the Vitality Stadium.
Iraola is seen as a crucial part of Bournemouth’s plans for the future and is believed to be happy at the club despite the interest from elsewhere.
This comes after former Spurs scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Iraola is Tottenham’s top target to replace Ange Postecoglou should they decide to pull the trigger.
That is thanks to an impressive season which has placed Bournemouth firmly in contention for European qualification, with just one point separating them, Brighton and Fulham.
Tottenham, meanwhile, are 16th in the Premier League and they see the Europa League as their last chance to redeem what has been a dismal season.
Tottenham candidates assessed after Andoni Iraola twist
Brown told Football Insider that Bournemouth want Iraola to sign a new deal and are doing everything they can to reach an agreement with the boss.
As a result, Tottenham have turned their attention to alternative candidates, with the likes of Scott Parker, Marco Silva, and Oliver Glasner linked with the role.
Similar to Iraola, however, Football Insider revealed Glasner is happy at Crystal Palace and is preparing to hold contract talks before the end of the season.
As a result, Spurs have been urged to be patient in their pursuit of a new manager, while they will continue to consider all options.
There is also a growing feeling that Postecoglou could stay at Tottenham beyond the end of the season if he wins the Europa League.
Carlo Ancelotti emerges as surprise contender at Spurs
As the search for a new manager continues, former Spurs goalkeeper Paul Robinson told Football Insider that Carlo Ancelotti could be on Tottenham’s list of candidates.
Ancelotti is likely to leave Madrid at the end of the season upon the expiry of his contract, while Los Blancos are heading for a trophy-less season.
While Ancelotti is seen as an ambitious target, his previous spell with Everton has led to suggestions he could be open to a return to the Premier League.
However, Tottenham will struggle to convince him without Champions League football while they remain 16th in the Premier League.
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