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 discussions come after their initial target, Filipe Luís, reportedly chose to join AS Monaco instead.
Glasner is expected to depart Crystal Palace at the end of the current season, making him available for Leverkusen who are seeking a replacement for Kasper Hjulmand. Bild reports that the Austrian coach is receptive to the possibility of taking charge at the BayArena, and further discussions are anticipated as early as Friday.
Should Leverkusen fail to agree terms with Glasner, AFC Bournemouth’s outgoing manager Andoni Iraola is identified as their alternative option. The club are keen to resolve the situation swiftly, with Hjulmand remaining under contract until 2027 but seemingly excluded from future plans.
Glasner has a prior history in the Bundesliga, having previously managed both VfL Wolfsburg and Eintracht Frankfurt. During his time with Frankfurt, he led the club to victory in the 2021-22 UEFA Europa League, defeating Rangers in the final. His appointment would bring a manager with proven European experience to Leverkusen.
Leverkusen finished sixth in the Bundesliga last season, missing out on European qualification. The club will be hoping a change in management can propel them back into contention for Champions League football. Glasner’s potential arrival signals an intent to compete at the higher end of the table.
