Exclusive – Leicester are stepping up a fight to keep up with manager Brendan Rodgers, who is still Tottenham’s top scorer to replace Jose Mourinho.
Spurs’ interest in Rodgers was only revealed 90 minutes back in March before Mourinho was released from his duties. Chairman Daniel Levy has long known that the Portuguese boss would not be in charge next season, and with Mourinho’s resignation now confirmed, Levy is ready to increase his search for a successor.
Mourinho released from office | Pool / Getty Images
Sources have confirmed for 90 minutes that former Chelsea and Juventus boss Maurizio Sarri has applied for the job and Spurs have not turned down Italian yet, while Julian Nagelsmann, Nuno Espirito Santo and Steven Gerrard are also being considered.
However, Rodgers has long been seen as a dream goal and Spurs are prepared to show their commitment to him by offering a contract in excess of £ 15 million a year that Mourinho took home at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Leicester know that Rodgers is in high demand. He was Manchester City’s top scorer to replace Pep Guardiola if the Spaniard did not sign a new contract, while 90min understands that his work has also received admiring glances from Barcelona.
Rodgers has earned a lot of admirers Pool / Getty Images
To convince him to stay, Leicester have made it clear that they would match Spurs’ offer and would even be prepared to improve it, which would see him move behind only Guardiola on the list of Premier League top-earning managers.
It is understood that Rodgers is happy with Leicester, who have forced themselves into the so-called big sex under the leadership of the Northern Irishman, but there is an awareness that moving to Spurs would be a huge opportunity.
While Leicester’s results on the pitch have been more impressive and the Foxes qualify for the Champions League this year, Spurs’ riches could mean the club has higher potential in the long run.
Levy is aiming for Rodgers | Shaun Botterill / Getty Images
Rodgers has not yet made a decision about his future. He still has four years left on his contract at King Power Stadium and would love to stay.
With Leicester ready to fight to keep Rodgers, Spurs are keen to explore all of their options, but Rodgers is at the top of their wish list and will be the first candidate offered the job.
For more from Tom Gott, follow him on Twitter!
