Arne Slot hints at interest in Leeds manager job

Feyenoord manager Arne Slot has hinted at his interest in the vacant Leeds job, saying he would ‘open the message’ if contacted by the Premier League club.

The Whites recently parted company with Jesse Marsch, who helped them avoid relegation last season but failed to take the side forward this term. Leeds are 16th, only a point above the bottom three.

Michael Skubala, Paco Gallardo and Chris Armas took charge of Wednesday night’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United. 90min revealed earlier on Thursday Rayo Vallecano manager Andoni Iraola turned down the opportunity to move to Elland Road, while previous first choice Carlos Corberan couldn’t be persuaded to leave West Brom, where he has signed a new contract.

Slot has Feyenoord at the top of the Eredivisie as they chase a first league title since 2016/17. The 44-year-old former midfielder admitted he had heard the rumours but denied any concrete contact.

He said: “I have not heard anything. I have read it [the rumours], but I haven’t seen anything on my phone yet.

“What will I do when a message comes in from Leeds? Open the message.”

However, Feyenoord official Dennis te Kloese added he also has not had any contact from Leeds and referenced the transfer that took place between the two sides in the summer when Luis Sinisterra moved to England.

“I have not heard anything from Leeds, neither officially nor unofficially,” he said.

“I also know Leeds as a correct club, so I don’t believe they are playing this behind our backs. Last summer the transfer of Luis Sinisterra also went in a very neat, correct way.”

Leeds face Manchester United again on Sunday, though this time at Elland Road as they look to improve on that 2-2 draw in midweek.