Bayer Leverkusen are in advanced negotiations with Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner regarding their vacant head coach position, according to a report from Bild. The development comes after initial target Filipe Luís reportedly chose to join AS Monaco, prompting Leverkusen to shift their focus to the Austrian coach.
Glasner is expected to depart Crystal Palace at the end of the current season, and Bild reports he is receptive to the possibility of returning to the Bundesliga. Discussions are anticipated to intensify as early as Friday, as Leverkusen seek to finalize a deal with their preferred candidate.
Should Leverkusen fail to reach an agreement with Glasner, they have identified AFC Bournemouth’s outgoing manager Andoni Iraola as a potential alternative. However, the club are currently prioritizing securing Glasner’s services.
Glasner has a proven track record in the Bundesliga, having previously managed VfL Wolfsburg and Eintracht Frankfurt. During his time with Frankfurt, he guided the club to victory in the 2021-22 UEFA Europa League, showcasing his ability to achieve success on multiple fronts. He took over at Crystal Palace in July 2023 and has overseen a mid-table finish in the Premier League.
Kasper Hjulmand remains under contract with Leverkusen until 2027, but the club is expected to announce his departure once a successor is confirmed. The decision to seek a new head coach signals a potential shift in direction for Leverkusen, who will be hoping Glasner can build upon their recent progress and challenge for major honors. This appointment could signal Leverkusen’s intent to compete at the highest level both domestically and in European competitions.
