Tottenham eyeing 'hottest managerial property' as possible Ange Postecoglou replacement?

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly expected to consider Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola as a potential managerial candidate should they decide to part ways with Ange Postecoglou.

The former Celtic boss has experienced a difficult second season with the North London club, having seen his squad hit by a whole host of injuries throughout the campaign.

Spurs are currently languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table after collecting just 27 points from their 24 top-flight matches.

Their hopes of winning their first trophy since 2008 were recently dented by an EFL Cup semi-final to Liverpool and an FA Cup fourth-round loss to Aston Villa.

As a result, the Europa League represents the only realistic path for Spurs to clinch silverware and secure European football for next season.

Spurs eye Iraola as Postecoglou successor

Tottenham's disappointing campaign has led to questions about Postecoglou's future with the club despite the fact that he is under contract until the summer of 2027.

The Spurs head coach refused to be drawn on any speculation surrounding his future following Saturday's 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa.

However, should Spurs decide to part ways with Postecoglou, the Daily Mail are reporting that Iraola will feature towards the top of a shortlist of potential replacements.

Iraola is allegedly viewed as the 'hottest managerial property' in the English top flight this term following his success with the Cherries.

The seventh-placed side are eyeing European football for the first time in their history after collecting 40 points from 24 matches, leaving them one point adrift of fifth spot which could become a Champions League qualification place.

Bournemouth battling to retain Iraola's services

In addition to Spurs, Iraola is believed to have admirers at other Premier League clubs as well as teams in his native Spain.

The Basque coach extended his Bournemouth deal in May 2024, but that contract is set to expire at the end of the 2025-26 season.

As a result, Iraola could prove to be an enticing option for his potential suitors due to his impressive reputation and the relatively low cost of a potential deal.

Bournemouth are likely to make an effort to extend Iraola's contract, although talks over a new deal are yet to take place.

Iraola's current focus will be on Saturday's short trip to St Mary's to face fellow Premier League basement side Southampton.