Andoni Iraola to Replace Hjulmand at Bayer Leverkusen: Reports

Bayer Leverkusen push for Andoni Iraola

Bayer Leverkusen near deal for Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola after Xabi Alonso’s exit. Kasper Hjulmand expected to depart despite contract to 2027. Oliver Glasner also a candidate.

Leverkusen target Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola after Filipe Luis turned them down for Monaco. Hjulmand set to leave despite 2027 contract, with Glasner also linked...

Bayer Leverkusen’s hunt for a new manager looks close to wrapping up. Kicker reports the Bundesliga side are in “final negotiations” with Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola. The 43-year-old Spaniard is tipped to replace Kasper Hjulmand, who still has a deal until 2027 but is expected to depart.

Filipe Luis was reportedly Bayer’s first choice, with media saying he’s now close to joining Monaco after turning Leverkusen down. With that move off the table, Sky says Leverkusen are now “pushing” to get Iraola over the line and want a “quick agreement.”

Oliver Glasner is also said to be in the mix at Leverkusen after he led Crystal Palace to Conference League glory on Wednesday.

Glasner also in Leverkusen frame

Oliver Glasner has also been linked to the Leverkusen job after guiding Crystal Palace to Conference League success on Wednesday.

Iraola, a Basque like Bayer’s title-winning coach Xabi Alonso, has had a strong run in England. He broke Bournemouth’s Premier League points record in each of his three seasons and recently took them on an 18-game unbeaten streak.

The Cherries just missed out on a Champions League place, ending sixth in the table. That was still enough to lock down a Europa League spot for next season.