Marcelo Bielsa has major doubts over replacing Frank Lampard at Everton amid concerns that the squad will struggle to adapt to his high-octane style.
On a farcical day at Everton, Villarreal forward Arnaut Danjuma agreed to join them, had a medical, posed for photos and was interviewed by club media — then opted to join Tottenham.
Former Leeds boss Bielsa, 67, is Everton’s No 1 choice to replace Lampard, who lost his job following a run of six defeats in seven Premier League matches that has left the club 19th in the table, after their worst start to a league season.
No 1 target Marcelo Bielsa has told Everton that the team is too slow to play the way he wants
Villarreal’s Arnaut Danjuma looked all set to join Everton before Tottenham entered the fray
Homegrown talent Anthony Gordon meanwhile could be on his way to join Newcastle United
However, in talks with club officials, the Argentine told Everton that the team is too slow to play the way he wants and they must prioritise pace in this month’s transfer window if he is to replace Lampard.
Bielsa provided a breakdown of the squad and his chief concern is said to be a lack of speed in defensive areas.
If guarantees are not given to address his concerns, he is likely to walk away. As he proved at Leeds, Bielsa does not waver from his footballing philosophy.
Sportsmail has learned that Everton chiefs have canvassed senior players about their search for Lampard’s successor.
The Argentine has concerns that Everton are too slow and would struggle to adapt to his style
Key figures within the hierarchy remain admirers of their previous manager Sam Allardyce — boss at Goodison in 2017-18 — and he has also held initial talks over replacing Lampard.
There is a feeling at Everton that Allardyce’s experience in guiding relegation-threatened teams to safety would give the club a strong chance of avoiding the drop.
Sean Dyche is also out of work, but there is a reluctance from the Everton board to move for the former Burnley boss.
West Bromwich manager Carlos Corberan and former Southampton boss Ralph Hassenhutl are both on the short-list.
Tottenham are set to complete a last-gasp swoop for Danjuma, hijacking Everton’s move for the Netherlands forward.
The Villarreal star is…