Crystal Palace could have replaced Patrick Vieira with Marcelo Bielsa – now, however, the Argentine is in talks for another role elsewhere.
What’s the story?
Well, the 67-year-old’s representatives expressed interest in the Crystal Palace job on their client’s behalf back in January.
The Athletic believe Bielsa’s entourage sounded out the south Londoners over the possibility of replacing Vieira while also holding talks with Everton.
Eventually, the Toffees opted for Sean Dyche, while the Eagles decided to rehire Roy Hodgson.
Now, Bielsa could be about to manage Uruguay.
TyC Sports believe the South American is in talks to take over from Diego Alonso, who resigned after failing to guide Uruguay out of Group H at the World Cup in Qatar.
It is said that Bielsa’s contract – if he signs it – would be valid until the end of the World Cup qualifiers.
Bielsa seemingly no longer a summer option for Crystal Palace
If the south Londoners were interested in hiring Bielsa this summer, it would appear that option is no longer available.
Crystal Palace have only hired Hodgson on a short-term deal, so Steve Parish will be tasked with finding an option for the long term this summer.
Bielsa may have accepted the opportunity given his alleged interest in replacing Vieira back in January.
However, as Uruguay make progress in negotiations with the man known as El Loco, it would seem a return to the Premier League is no longer likely.
The Guardian believe Adi Hütter and Paulo Fonseca are options for Crystal Palace this summer, although it all depends on whether the south Londoners retain their Premier League status.
Of course, Hodgson could also be offered a new contract if he oversees success in his second stint at Selhurst Park.
Anything could happen at Crystal Palace this summer, so make sure to keep an eye on developments in SE25.
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