Leeds United 'view Julen Lopetegui as potential Marcelo Bielsa replacement'

Leeds United have reportedly identified Sevilla boss Julen Lopetegui as a potential replacement for Marcelo Bielsa should the Argentine leave Elland Road next summer.

Bielsa has only signed a 12-month extension with the Whites, meaning that he could in theory walk away from the club at the end of the 2020-21 campaign.

The 65-year-old, who has been placed on the shortlist for the Best FIFA Men's Coach award, has overseen a solid start to the season for Leeds, with a total of 14 points from 10 matches leaving them in 11th spot in the Premier League table.

According to The Sun, though, the club are preparing for life after the South American and view Lopetegui, who has rebuilt his reputation with Sevilla, as a strong candidate.

The 54-year-old was sacked by Real Madrid after just 14 games at the helm but led Los Nervionenses to fourth spot in La Liga last term, in addition to winning the Europa League.

The former Spain boss has a contract at the Estadio Ramon until June 2022.