Former Leeds United managerial target Andoni Iraola has been appointed as the new head coach of Bournemouth. The Whites held talks with the former Rayo Vallecano boss as a prospective replacement for Jesse Marsch in February, only for the 40-year-old to opt to remain with Rayo Vallecano.
Iraola's three-year stint with the La Liga side ended this summer following an impressive 11th-placed finish. Now, the former Leeds target will get his first taste of the Premier League after being unveiled as Gary O'Neil's successor with the Cherries on Monday afternoon.
Bournemouth owner and chairman Bill Foley told the club's website: "We're so excited to welcome Andoni to the club. With his contract in Spain coming to an end this summer we wanted to act quickly.
"He was highly sought after by other clubs across the continent, and his style of play has been an important factor in making this decision. His achievements in Spain have certainly been very impressive, and we're confident that he is the right man to lead our next chapter.
READ MORE: Brendan Rodgers returns to Celtic as Leeds United's manager hunt goes on
"We have identified a number of targets in the transfer market, which along with our January additions will supplement our strong playing squad to give Andoni the best chance to consolidate our Premier League status and keep progressing."
Leeds' relegation to the Championship meant a renewed approach for Iraola this summer was always unlikely. The newly-appointed Cherries boss was available as a free agent following the end of his contract with Rayo Vallecano and was linked to a host of clubs.
However, it is the second managerial appointment on Monday to have narrowed Leeds' prospective pool of candidates. Brendan Rodgers was another outside bet linked with the post at Elland Road, but the ex-Leicester City boss has returned to Celtic for a second spell in charge of the Scottish champions.
Daniel Farke has emerged in recent days as a potential candidate, having twice led Norwich City to promotion from the Championship. Carlos Corberan and Scott Parker are also said to be in the running, with matters still complicated by the expected takeover from 49ers Enterprises.
READ NEXT:
