BOURNEMOUTH are lining up a shock swoop for Marcelo Bielsa as they look to finally replace Scott Parker, according to reports.
The 42-year-old was dismissed all the way back in August after a humiliating 9-0 drubbing at Anfield.
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Gary O’Neil has enjoyed mixed fortunes in the intervening period as he attempted to navigate the south coast side to Premier League points.
An early period of positive results saw speculation of a permanent replacement die down.
But now the Athletic report that the Cherries are considering a permanent replacement in the form of ex-Leeds boss Bielsa.
The Argentine has been out of a job after his sacking at Elland Road earlier this year, where fans still hold him in very high esteem.
But the report said prospective new owner Bill Foley believed finding a permanent manager was high on the club’s list of priorities.
If Bournemouth could land the 67-year-old as boss it would be an incredible, headline-grabbing appointment.
While things unravelled in Bielsa’s second Premier League, his first time managing in England’s top flight saw him guide newly-promoted Leeds to ninth.
Bielsa is an extremely experienced coach and has managed the likes of Espanyol, Athletic Bilbao, Marseille and Lille during his long career.
In contrast, this caretaker stint is Gary O’Neil’s first spell in management and he has impressed for the most part.
His reign began with a six game unbeaten run that bought renewed life to the Vitality stadium.
But the bubble has since burst and Bournemouth have lost their last four league games.
But a midweek Carabao Cup win could help the club steer the results back on track.
Their beaten cup opponents Everton face a second trip to Dorset for a league game just four days after their 4-1 thumping.
