A number of Leeds United's Premier League rivals are facing an uncertain summer in the dugout.
One of Leeds United’s potential key rivals for next season could suffer an early-summer blow amid reports of a managerial exit.
The Whites will hope to close a five-point gap on Fulham next season with the two clubs likely fighting for a similar position in the Premier League table. Daniel Farke’s side finished 14th upon their top-flight return while the Cottagers ended their campaign in 11th, each team winning once against the other.
Much of Fulham’s success has been credited to head coach Marco Silva, who at times had his side chasing European football despite an underwhelming transfer window. But there has been uncertainty surrounding the 48-year-old’s future for several months, with his contract expiring this summer.
Craven Cottage chiefs have been desperate to keep Silva but talkSPORT reports they could be handed a huge early-summer blow. The Portuguese coach is now believed to be close to joining Benfica, a move that would see him return to his home city of Lisbon.
TalkSPORT report that Silva and Benfica have reached a ‘verbal agreement’ to join forces this summer, with the Portuguese side looking to replace Real Madrid-bound Jose Mourinho. The offer is believed to be worth around £4million-per-year, around half of the £8m-a-year deal on the table at Fulham.
But Benfica’s ability to challenge for domestic silverware, qualify for the Champions League and the fact he is from Lisbon all point towards a return home. Fulham are now said to be ‘awaiting formal communication’ from Silva regarding his desire to leave London.
Marco Silva exit would be a big blow for Fulham
Silva initially joined Fulham following their relegation to the Championship in 2021 and guided them to an instant top-flight return via the second-tier title. In each of the four Premier League campaigns since, the Cottagers have finished between 10th and 13th.
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Fulham won’t be the only Premier League club to potentially lose an important manager this summer either. FA Cup and Conference League-winning Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner looks set to move on while Bournemouth have already confirmed Marco Rose will replace the departing Andoni Iraola.
Silva’s exit would be a big early blow for Fulham, who are also facing uncertainty over a key player. Like his manager, winger Harry Wilson is also out of contract this summer and is yet to agree fresh terms in the capital.
Wilson, a summer 2025 deadline-day target for Leeds, enjoyed his best-ever season at Craven Cottage with 10 goals and seven assists in 36 top-flight appearances. The Welsh international is expected to have a host of suitors and Elland Road chiefs aren’t likely to have withdrawn interest given his incredible form.
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