Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag could become Bayer Leverkusen's new manager – but only if Cesc Fabregas remains at Como.
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Ten Hag the second choiceComo fighting to keep FabregasAlonso heading to Real MadridFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Per Florian Plettenberg, Leverkusen are locked in negotiations with Como over a deal to appoint Fabregas as Xabi Alonso's successor. However, the Serie A club are reticent to let the ex-Arsenal midfielder leave, and as a result, the Bundesliga club have shortlisted Ten Hag as their second-choice.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE
The Dutchman has been out of a job since leaving United in October, as the club had won just three of their opening nine games. Their form since, however, has perhaps strengthened Ten Hag's argument that he was not the only problem at Old Trafford; they are currently 16th under successor Ruben Amorim. Leverkusen won the Bundesliga under Alonso, and managing director of sport Simon Rolfes has confirmed that they are yet to rule out a candidate, despite Como's wishes to keep Fabregas.
WHAT ROLFES SAID
Rolfes told Sky: "No candidate has turned us down at any point in the process. I believe we will wrap this up in May and that we’re in the final stages. It will definitely happen in May."
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT?
Leverkusen will aim to finalise the appointment of a new manager shortly. Whether it is Fabregas or Ten Hag remains to be seen.