Former Burnley and Everton boss Sean Dyche is a leading contender to take over at Nottingham Forest following Ange Postecoglou’s dismissal, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.
The 54-year-old is among the names Forest are considering for the managerial vacancy at the City Ground, along with former Manchester City head coach Roberto Mancini.
Global head of football Edu Gaspar and global technical director George Syrianos view Dyche as someone who can turn the season around immediately, as his strong Premier League experience is seen as a plus, while his style of play is deemed a fit for the underperforming side.
The club began talks with Dyche during the international break before they sacked Postecoglou following their 3-0 loss to Chelsea on Saturday and held positive discussions with the 54-year-old in the last 24 to 48 hours.
Postecoglou, who joined Forest on September 9, failed to win any of his eight games in charge and spent just 39 days at the helm, marking the shortest managerial reign in Premier League history.
Sean Dyche Leading Race to Become Forest Boss
Sean Dyche smiles
GIVEMESPORT sources can reveal that Forest view Dyche as the simplest to appoint among all the potential candidates, and there is a feeling he could already be in charge for their next game – a Europa League clash against Porto on Thursday.
Dyche is not believed to be open to taking the role only until the end of the season – he wants guarantees of a longer-term contract. Forest legends Ian Woan and Steve Stone could form part of his coaching staff, which would prove popular with fans.
Mancini was also approached by Forest and is viewed as a strong defensive coach and a serial winner, with a 2011/12 Premier League title with Manchester City on his resume.
However, no agreement between the parties has been reached, and the Italian’s appointment is seen as unlikely as it stands.
Forest also appreciate Fulham’s Marco Silva, but the cost of him joining at this point in the season would be over £10 million in compensation, and there has been no indication the Portuguese manager is willing to switch clubs mid-campaign.
Evangelos Marinakis worked closely with Silva at Olympiacos and previously wanted to bring him to the City Ground.
Forest still feel some form of European football this season is possible, even though they are currently in the Premier League’s bottom three, having won just once in their opening eight games.