Leeds United have opened talks with Javi Gracia about the vacant manager's job.

Former Watford manager Gracia is one of two names under consideration by Leeds but Rafa Benitez, the former Liverpool boss, is not in the running as he is holding out for a different project.

Leeds had been willing to leave Michael Skubala in interim charge until the end of the season, however, after Saturday's defeat by Everton pushed them deep into the relegation mire, and with a crucial game against Southampton this weekend, they have moved to bring in someone with greater experience.

They are offering a four-month contract with bonuses to keep the team in the Premier League, says the Daily Mail.

Director of football Victor Orta is under increasing pressure to find the right man, a fortnight on from the club sacking Jesse Marsch.

Gracia is free after leaving Qatari club Al-Sadd and understood to be willing to accept a short-term deal.