Tottenham have begun exploring their options beyond Ange Postecoglou, who could be sacked if the side are unable to achieve glory in the UEFA Europa League, and Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola is a man rated highly by the Spurs top brass, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Currently languishing in 13th in the Premier League table, Tottenham still lie a hefty eight points away from a place in the top half despite emerging triumphant in their clash with Southampton. Dismal performances this season have landed Postecoglou under serious pressure.
A number of managers have been earmarked as potential replacements, including the Cherries' own, who only joined the club in June 2023.
Romano: Iraola 'Celebrated Internally' at Tottenham
The Spaniard is a key target for the club's potentially vacant managerial role
Speaking via his YouTube channel, Romano provided the latest update on Tottenham's search for a new manager, indicating that they are likely to replace Postecoglou if the Europa League is lifted by a team other than the Lilywhites this season, and that Iraola remains a top target. He said:
"Europa League will be really important, because if Tottenham win Europa League, this could change the world sense of the project next year.
"Otherwise, the expectation is for a very concrete and strong chance for Tottenham to replace Ange Postecoglou at the end of the season. "Tottenham are informed on the situation of Andoni Iraola at Bournemouth with a release clause into his contract. So Tottenham know everything about that, and he's a candidate for the Tottenham job. Andoni Iraola is doing fantastic at Bournemouth, and for sure, he is celebrated internally at Tottenham. So it's one of the possibilities."
Since signing on at the Vitality Stadium at the start of last season, Iraola's impact on Bournemouth has been phenomenal. He has navigated his men to 10th in the table this term, having amassed 45 points thus far. The "elite" Spanish tactician has already helped his side to a best-ever points total last term of 48, and they look set to break the record for a second consecutive season.
Spurs have opted against rushing to a decision on the Greek-Australian custodian's future, but they have nonetheless identified alternative targets alongside Iraola. English top-flight experience is evidently valued by Tottenham's top brass as Thomas Frank and Marco Silva are both options ranking high on the shortlist.
Sign up to The GIVEMESPORT Report to get exclusive daily updates from Fabrizio Romano, Ben Jacobs, Dean Jones and Tom Bogert sent straight to your inbox.