The Times claim Tottenham Hotspur have added Feyenoord manager Arne Slot to their shortlist to replace Antonio Conte with the Italian’s future remaining largely unclear at this stage – only weeks after he rejected a move to Leeds.
Slot, 44, was strongly linked with a move to Leeds after the sacking of Jesse Marsch at the start of February. He was a main contender along with the likes of Andoni Iraola and Carlos Corberan. He flirted with the idea, at first.
Indeed, he said after a 4-4 draw with NEC Nijmegen that he would “open the message” if Leeds contacted him. The Whites did. But, in the end, Slot decided to remain at Feyenoord in order to create something beautiful with his side.
Feyenoord sit six points clear at the top of the Eredivisie. Not only would it be a stunning achievement to beat Ajax to the title given their financial power – but Slot has played and managed his whole career in his the Netherlands.
But he has never won the League. Now, he is as close as it ever gets. That contributed to Slot rejecting Leeds. The Independent report that he would have been pretty cheap – costing just £5.75m in compensation if Leeds got him.
But now, perhaps a bigger test. Fourth-placed Spurs, Champions League-chasing Spurs are interested. He might not be the top contender on the list, but he is on the list no doubt. Julian Nagelsmann is considered the favourite.
His sacking at Bayern means Spurs could go in for the German. But, Slot’s work at Feyenoord is attracting Spurs. Surely, he would prefer to stay put at his current club as he told Leeds. But, the lure of Spurs is greater than Leeds.
It will be an interesting one to see play out. Having spoken about his loyalty and creating something beautiful with his current side following the links to Leeds – what happens if Spurs come calling. Leeds may still be interested.
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