Claudio Ranieri has emerged as a surprise target for Championship side Leeds United.
In the wake of Garry Monk’s surprise relegation from Leeds last week, a number of interesting names have been linked with the Elland Road post.
One of the names reportedly in the running is Premier League title winner Claudio Ranieri, according to ESPN, and appointing the Italian may perhaps present the Whites with the chance to go somewhat full circle.
Claudio Ranieri has been linked with the Leeds job
In 2004, already relegated Leeds faced Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on the final day of the season hoping to bring the curtain down on the campaign as soon as possible with Championship football already confirmed for the following season.
While Leeds were managed by Eddie Gray, it was one Claudio Ranieri in the Blues dugout, taking charge of the club for the final time before Jose Mourinho’s appointment in the summer.
Claudio Ranieri took charge of Chelsea for the final time for their clash with Leeds in 2004
Since that day, the Whites have not played again in the top flight. And having come desperately close to reaching the play-offs this time around, they are looking for that manager who can take them to that next level – quite literally.
Ranieri’s career might not inspire too much confidence amongst the Elland Road faithful, but there is no doubt that his two spells in England – with Chelsea and Leicester – should be reflected upon as successes.
Whether he can enjoy a successful spell with the Whites would remain to be seen if he is appointed, but perhaps the man who was in the opposition dugout for Leeds’ last Premier League game could also prove to be the man to lead them into their next top flight fixture.
Would Ranieri be the right man to Leeds back to the promised land?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
