Former Premier League manager in line to replace Nuno Espirito Santo at Al Ittihad

A former Premier League manager has been linked to the Al Ittihad job amid the departure of Nuno Espirito Santo.

Saudi Pro League champions Al Ittihad sacked former Tottenham manager Nuno following a run of just six wins in 12 league encounters this term.

Indeed, the side, who boast Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kante among their ranks, suffered a 2-0 defeat by Air Force Club of Iraq in the Asian Champions League on Monday.

Nuno took over at Al Ittihad last July after being sacked by Spurs eight months earlier.

His assistant, Hassan Khalifa will take interim charge of the team.

And it is now being reported ex-Wolves, Real Madrid and Spain boss Julen Lopetegui is of interest to the Saudi Pro League side.

However the Spaniard's preference is reportedly to remain in the Premier League.

Spanish journalist Guillem Balague tweeted: "I have heard [there is] (real) interest of #AlIttihad for #JulenLopetegui

"His plan is clear. He will remain in England and wait for an opportunity in the #PremierLeague

"Every team that has contacted him in the past (Lyon, Villarreal, etc) [has] heard [this] but I think his idea is clear (let's see if a huge massive enormous offer changes his mind, but I doubt it)."

Reports of interest from the Saudi Pro League come a day after Lopetegui was mentioned as an Erik ten Hag replacement at Old Trafford.

According to Spanish publication AS, via TeamTalk, United are considering a move for Lopetegui, with the manager ‘"waiting for United’s call" should the axe indeed fall on Ten Hag in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, the Mirror have reported former United boss Jose Mourinho is another name of interest to Al Ittihad.

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