Sources: Leeds explore Gary O’Neil deal after new manager favourite reveal
Gary O’Neil is in the frame to take over at Leeds United if they choose to sack Daniel Farke, sources have told Football Insider.
The Whites were beaten 3-2 away at Manchester City last weekend, and remain inside the Premier League’s relegation zone at the 13-game mark of the campaign.
O’Neil recently became the new favourite for the Leeds job earlier this week, and sources have now indicated that there is truth behind those suggestions, with the 42-year-old on the radar in LS11.
Farke is set to remain in charge for the clash with Chelsea on Wednesday night, but he is still facing plenty of scrutiny after a difficult start to the season.
Leeds want Gary O’Neil for his Premier League experience
Football Insider recently revealed that Farke has been bought additional time by Leeds’ performance in the second half of their defeat at the Etihad Stadium.
However, that hasn’t stopped the board from beginning to weigh up potential replacements for the German, should results not improve over the next few games.
O’Neil has been linked with a number of jobs in the Premier League and the Championship of late, and he is now firmly in the frame as a candidate for the Leeds role, Football Insider understands.
The ex-Wolves boss’ top-flight experience is believed to make him an appealing option for the 49ers, but there are also several other names who are interested in the position, should it become available in the coming weeks.
Ange Postecoglou is also on the 49ers’ radar
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown recently told Football Insider that Ange Postecoglou is another name that Leeds are considering to take charge of the team.
Postecogou has been out of work since his ill-fated stint with Nottingham Forest was brought to a close in the middle of October, and he is likely to be viewed as a potential candidate by the 49ers.
However, Brown also expressed that he would still be surprised if they eventually decide to hand the reins to the 60-year-old, given the style of football that he would invariably bring.
For now, the job remains Farke’s to lose, but the hierarchy at Elland Road are already beginning to plot their next move if it is needed.