Could Iraola 'see value in a move to south London'?
- Published
For much of the past year, Andoni Iraola's future has been a hot topic on the south coast.
Last April Bournemouth owner Bill Foley flew to England to hold talks with Iraola over a new contract. But no news has been forthcoming at any point.
There are varying degrees of interest from a number of clubs in Iraola heading into the summer.
Sources claim Crystal Palace are among those keeping abreast of Iraola's situation heading into next season as they look to find Oliver Glasner's successor.
There will be those who say Iraola has earned the right to take charge of a traditionally bigger club than Palace.
But with suitable assurances over shaping the squad with his imprint, perhaps Iraola would see value in a move to south London.
Speak to those who have worked with Iraola and they describe a man too astute to simply go after the 'biggest' opportunity that may come his way.
Stability, coupled with a directive to build a team in his mould, are said to be far more important factors for Iraola than prestige.
It is likely that Iraola and his advisers are keeping their ears to the ground for what vacancies could be on the horizon.
Of course, the managerial market is gearing up to be extremely competitive heading into next season.
Xabi Alonso, Enzo Maresca and Ruben Amorim to name just three are currently out of work and available.
Glasner has confirmed he is leaving Palace at the end of the season. Thomas Frank, given his plight at Tottenham, could be available.
Then there are international managers Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino, Carlo Ancelotti and Julian Nagelsmann, who could also be out of work after the World Cup.
Indeed, the availability of so many top managers could benefit any plans Bournemouth have of trying to extend Iraola's contract into another season.
But you would imagine Iraola will be asking himself whether he has taken Bournemouth as far as he can before making a decision on his future at the Vitality.
