Leeds United 'approach Steve Bruce'

Leeds United have reportedly approached Aston Villa boss Steve Bruce regarding their vacant managerial position.

Bruce is yet to be assured over his future at Villa following the club's failure to secure promotion to the Premier League last term.

The 57-year-old reportedly has 'no intention' of walking away from the club, but the uncertainty surrounding Villa's financial predicament has aided suggestions that the former Manchester United centre-back could depart.

Villa reached an agreement with HMRC on Thursday to push back an unpaid £4.2m settlement until next week, but that is far from the end of the club's problems.

According to The Telegraph, Leeds are closely monitoring developments as the Whites, who finished 13th in the Championship last season, look for a replacement for Paul Heckingbottom.

Former Argentina manager Marcelo Bielsa has been strongly linked with the position at Elland Road, but it is now being reported that Bruce is very much in the mix having been sounded out through intermediaries.

Villa suffered a 1-0 defeat to Fulham in the final of the Championship playoffs, and must also now significantly reduce their wage bill.