Marcelo Bielsa could be the next incumbent of the Elland Road hotseat

Leeds United are in advanced talks with Marcelo Bielsa over becoming the club's new head coach, Sky Sports News understands.

The Argentine is currently unemployed, having been sacked by French side Lille in December after he was briefly suspended by the club following a poor run of results.

Leeds dismissed Paul Heckingbottom last week and managing director Angus Kinnear has since joined director of football Victor Orta in travelling to South America to meet Bielsa.

Bielsa coached the Argentina national side from 1998 until 2004 and also had four years in charge of Chile before embarking on a club management career in Europe.

The 62-year-old had success with Athletic Bilbao, guiding them to the final of the Europa League and Copa Del Rey during the 2011-12 season, but he was unable to win either trophy.

He also had a spell with Marseille and quit Lazio only two days after being appointed, but he has been credited by Pep Guardiola, Mauricio Pochettino and Diego Simeone as being a big influence on their managerial careers.

Heckingbottom lasted only 13 games in charge at Elland Road after coming in from Barnsley to replace Thomas Christiansen in February.