Leeds ‘fail to persuade Rayo Vallecano boss Andoni Iraola to join club’ as search for new manager continues

LEEDS’ search for a new manager continues after Rayo Vallecano boss Andoni Iraola turned down their approach, according to reports.

Jesse Marsch was sacked by the Premier League club on Monday after less than one year in the job.

GettyRayo Vallecano’s Andoni Iraola has turned down a move to Leeds[/caption]

West Brom boss Carlos Corberan was heavily linked with the role but instead signed a new deal to remain at the Hawthorns.

Leeds have since looked elsewhere for a head coach, eyeing up Vallecano man Iraola.

The Spaniard, 40, has guided his side to fifth in LaLiga and just three points adrift of the Champions League places.

According to The Guardian, a number of Leeds chiefs flew out to meet with Iraola in a bid to convince him to return to Yorkshire.

But they were unsuccessful in doing so as they headed back to England no closer to finding Marsch’s replacement.

Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou and Bodo/Glimt boss Kjetil Knutsen have both been linked with the vacancy.

Feyenoord’s Arne Slot is another name being thrown around, although he is expected to stay with the Eredivisie giants.

The likes of Steven Gerrard, Rafa Benitez and Ralph Hasenhuttl have also been mooted.

Leeds are embroiled in a relegation battle following a run of eight Premier League games without a win.

Without a manager, they did secure a 2-2 draw away at Man Utd on Wednesday evening.

But they are still just one point above the drop zone in 16th place.

On Tuesday, Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani called for patience surrounding the managerial position.

He tweeted: “We are on it. Hopefully white smoke by tonight or [tomorrow] morning”.

On Wednesday evening, he then added: “Not yet……. need more time”.

APJesse Marsch was sacked by Leeds after a poor run of results[/caption]