Jesse Marsch is Leeds United's preferred choice to replace Marcelo Bielsa if he leaves this summer, according to a report which emerged on Thursday lunchtime.

The Lowdown: Bielsa's contract running out

Bielsa has become a modern-day legend at Elland Road, bringing a great period of success that has seen the Whites return to the Premier League in style.

The 66-year-old only signed a one-year extension last summer, however, meaning his current deal will expire at the end of the season, and there have been no concrete reports of a renewal yet.

This suggests this summer could possibly be the one he finally hangs up his bucket at Leeds, with reports this week even claiming he has already held meetings with clubs in Europe.

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The Latest: Leeds eye up Marsh capture

According to The Telegraph's Chief Football Writer, Sam Wallace, Andrea Radrizzani and Victor Orta have made Marsch the 'first choice' candidate to replace Bielsa, with the 48-year-old currently without a club.

Marsch was previously in charge of RB Leipzig but parted ways back in December, while he impressed hugely during his time at RB Salzburg boss, winning two Austrian titles and cups apiece.

Interestingly, during his last six months in Austria, he managed heavily linked Leeds target Brenden Aaronson.

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The Verdict: Ideal Bielsa repalcement

In an ideal world, Bielsa staying put would still arguably be the best-case scenario, with the Argentine struggling this season but badly hampered by injuries to key players.

That being said, Marsch could bring a freshness to the squad if the current manager feels it is time to move on, with Jurgen Klopp once saying he has 'massive respect' for the 48 year-old American - perhaps not a surprise given their mutual love of gegenpressing.

Marsch's style of play could also make it a seamless transition - the former Leipzig man says he likes to play 'fast' and not 'give the opponent time and space', which feels very Bielsa-esque.

In other news, one returning Leeds player could feature against Manchester United. Find out who it is here.