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Joe Donnohue

Leeds United's imminent announcement can strengthen Victor Orta's hand in transfer negotiations

Leeds United are currently manager-less, after Marcelo Bielsa was relieved of his duties on Sunday, however it is expected the revered coach will be replaced imminently.

The club issued a statement confirming Bielsa's departure on Sunday morning, including a line which read: "Leeds United will aim to make an announcement on a new appointment tomorrow [Monday 28]."

While many supporters will still be in a state of mourning, having lost the figurehead who inspired revival and unified them, a new face, complete with an all-new backroom team will be installed at Thorp Arch this week.

Favourite for the job is Red Bull loyalist Jesse Marsch. The American coach has held positions at New York Red Bulls, Red Bull Salzburg and most recently RB Leipzig where a four-month stint ended prematurely.

The 48-year-old does have a curious link to Leeds United's primary January transfer target, however.

The Whites trailed Red Bull Salzburg midfielder Brenden Aaronson during last month's window, but ultimately fell short in being able to tempt the USMNT international to Elland Road.

Salzburg held firm on their policy of retaining key players mid-season, rebuffing two reported bids of £15 million and £20 million.

Interestingly enough, Marsch was the head coach at the Austrian club when Aaronson moved across to Europe.

He joined Salzburg from MLS franchise Philadelphia Union, slotting into Marsch's 4-2-2-2 system immediately upon arrival in the Alpine region.

Aaronson featured in each of Salzburg's remaining league games following his January 2021 switch, playing predominantly as a left-sided midfielder under his fellow countryman.

Marsch exited Salzburg last June, climbing the Red Bull ladder by joining Bundesliga side RB Leipzig where he spent a brief spell in the dugout.

With regards to Aaronson, he is a player Leeds identified for an attacking midfield role and there is every possibility they will return to Salzburg with a similar bid this summer.

Should Leeds offer Aaronson a route into the Premier League working alongside a familiar coach, that particular factor may well swing the decision in the Whites' favour.

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