Sources: Fulham sound out Thomas Frank to be their manager
Fulham have sounded out Thomas Frank to potentially replace Alvaro Arbeloa, sources have told Football Insider.
The west London club see the former Tottenham and Brentford manager as a “good match” for the club.
But Frank is in demand and Fulham will face intense competition to agree terms in the coming weeks.
Arbeloa, 43, is facing uncertainty around his future at Fulham just two months on from being appointed as their new manager.
The Spaniard failed to guide his side to a win in any of their first five Premier League games of the campaign, meaning they sit 19th in the table as it stands.
Rumours of discontent behind the scenes and in the dressing room have emerged in recent weeks, and he could be relieved of his duties if they continue to struggle after the international break.
The 52-year-old is yet to return to management since being sacked by Spurs in February after a run of two wins in 17 league games.
Thomas Frank could be the next Fulham manager if Alvaro Arbeloa is sacked
Frank was a revelation in charge of Fulham's capital rivals Brentford, leading them from Championship obscurity to Premier League solidity.
His move to Tottenham did not work out, winning just 13 of his 38 games in charge in an eight-month period, with the lowest win ratio of any of their permanent managers in the Premier League era.
Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Frank is keen to return to management in the Premier League soon as several clubs keep tabs on his availability.
Fulham believe that he would suit their players and club well, but Crystal Palace are also considering making an approach for his services if they decide to sack Pierre Sage.
What has Frank said about returning to management?
Frank released an official statement on his time at Spurs and aims for the future via the LMA in June.
He admitted that he was keen to take more time out of management over the summer, but also looked forward to returning to the dugout in the near future.
Frank wrote: "Leaving Tottenham has given me the chance to step back and reflect on my journey so far. Football management is a profession that demands complete commitment every single day, and periods like this are a rare opportunity to assess, learn and gain a fresh perspective. Time away from the touchline is allowing me to broaden my perspective and gather insights that I look forward to bringing into my next challenge.
"There have been conversations and opportunities since leaving Spurs, but I have decided not to rush into the next role. For me, this summer is not the right time to go back into management. When the time is right, I will look forward to my return as a manager, ready to embrace the job with great energy and dedication."