The FA is in discussions with representatives of Thomas Tuchel, with the German coach emerging as the frontrunner to become the new England manager, according to Sky Sports News.
Tuchel has been without a club since May, following his departure from Bayern Munich.
Sky Sports News earlier reported that there had been no formal approach from the FA to Tuchel or to other leading candidates, including Jurgen Klopp, Graham Potter, and Eddie Howe.
However, it is believed that the FA has accelerated its search for a successor to Gareth Southgate in light of recent events, including the Nations League defeat to Greece and interim manager Lee Carsley’s ambiguous messaging regarding his future.
While there was an initial inquiry into Pep Guardiola’s availability shortly after Southgate’s resignation in July, no further developments have occurred in that area.
Although Guardiola is highly regarded by senior figures at the FA, he is not currently considered an active candidate for the position.
Tuchel now appears to be the FA’s primary choice, and he could be confirmed in the role quickly if negotiations progress positively.
However, many details of his contract still need to be finalised. The FA’s technical director, John McDermott, is known to prioritize hiring a coach with a proven track record of winning trophies.
Tuchel certainly fits this criterion, having won league titles with both Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, as well as the Champions League, Super Cup, and Club World Cup with Chelsea.
It is understood that, despite being technically placed on gardening leave by Bayern, the FA would not be required to pay any compensation to the German club.
If appointed, Tuchel would become only the third non-English manager of the men’s England team, following in the footsteps of Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello.
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