Leeds blow as manager target Carlos Corberan signs new four-and-a-half-year contract at West Brom
CARLOS CORBERAN has signed a contract extension at West Brom despite strong speculation linking him with the vacant Leeds job.
The Spanish head coach had been the favourite to take over at Elland Road after Jesse Marsch’s sacking.
But the club have tonight announced he has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract extension, signalling he is going nowhere.
Albion’s Chief Executive Ron Gourlay said: “I am delighted Carlos has extended his contract at the football club. I have always been impressed by Carlos and my admiration of him as a coach has only grown since he arrived here.
“His passion for the game we all love has been infectious for all connected with the club, not least our players, who have clearly benefitted from Carlos’ first-class coaching, tactical knowhow, and attention to detail.
“We sat down three weeks ago to discuss the future of the club and Carlos’ vision for Albion is absolutely aligned with my own. Together we are determined to continue taking the club forwards.”
The announcement will be a blow to Leeds who are fighting for their Premier League lives and will keen to get a replacement in.
The Yorkshire club face a Premier League double against in-form Manchester United in the coming days as they desperately search for points.
Marsch was sacked after failing to guide Leeds to victory in any of their post-World Cup games.
His final game in charge was Sunday’s 1-0 defeat at Nottingham Forest.
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Rayo Vallecano manager Andoni Iraola is now believed to be the favourite for the job.
Celtic boss Ang Postecoglou has also been linked to the role.
In contrast to Leeds’ declining fortunes, West Brom fans are enjoying the time of their lives under Corberan.
He took over from Steve Bruce in October and, after losing his first game in charge, has won nine of the next 11 league games.
The Baggies sat in the relegation zone when Bruce was given his marching orders.
But they are now in the play-offs and only four points off third-place Middlesborough, who have experienced a similar revival under Michael Carrick.
Third may be the most achievable position for West Brom, with leaders Burnley 21 points ahead of them and Sheffield United having a 14 point advantage.