Bielsa could become a target for Manchester City, claims Darren Bent

Former England striker Darren Bent has claimed that Manchester City are among a list of top clubs looking to tempt Marcelo Bielsa away from Leeds United.

The City boss is now in the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium. Guardiola, 49, took charge at City on an initial three-year deal in 2016 but extended that by a further two seasons in 2018.

Speculation over the Catalan’s next move will undoubtedly increase as the end of the contract nears. While Guardiola extended terms for an extra year in May 2018, he insisted a new deal will only be offered if he proves deserving of one this season.

Many believe this season could be Pep’s final year in charge at the Etihad for the Spaniard is known for spending short periods at the clubs he manages before moving on to a new project. 

According to The Telegraph, City chiefs will start looking for a new head coach the moment Guardiola signals he is ready to quit. 

The City hierarchy are confident that the 49-year-old will extend his contract at the Etihad. But, chief operating officer, Omar Berrada, said the club would have to look for Guardiola’s successor if he decides to leave.

Darren Bent believe Bielsa could now become a target for the Citizens should they require a change. Speaking about the impact made by Bielsa at Elland Road, Bent told Football Insider: “With Bielsa, it’s an interesting season for Leeds.

“Depending on what happens with Pep at Manchester City and a few other top jobs, I think Bielsa who has only signed a one-year deal, a lot of teams at the end of the season not even depending on how Leeds do, they may look at Bielsa and go ‘you know what, this guy with the quality of player that we’ve got he could take us to another level as well.”

ALSO READ: 

➽ ‘Thank you Txiki, thinks he’s the next Ramos’ – Fans react as Eric Garcia ‘angered’ by City’s Refusal to Sell

➽ ‘I think Bielsa should take over’ – A Man City fan’s perfect replacement for Pep Guardiola

➽ ‘Fernandinho replacement sorted’ – Fans reacts to Man City’s ‘strong interest’ in €50m Milan star

➽ ‘Stupid by him, Let him rot there’ – Some Spurs Fans fume over John Stone transfer claims

➽ ‘Twisted priorities’ – Fans react as Man City ‘set to sign’ 22-year-old Argentine striker

Leeds United have enjoyed a strong start back in the top flight, going unbeaten in three games after a narrow opening day defeat to champions Liverpool.

While City have made a slow start to the season, having won just one of their opening three Premier League games to find themselves down in 14th place.