Man Utd and Chelsea Put on Notice as Manager Target Declares He's in No Hurry to Move

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has cautioned interested clubs such as Manchester United and Chelsea that he intends to take his time before deciding on his next destination.

The Cherries head coach has attracted significant attention ahead of his upcoming free agency, with several of the Premier League's biggest clubs adding him to their managerial shortlists.

Chelsea are rushing to name their third permanent manager within a single calendar year and are keen to resolve the matter early in the summer window, while United are said to view Iraola as potentially the strongest alternative to Michael Carrick should they opt against handing the permanent role to their current interim boss.

Those anticipating a quick resolution from Iraola are likely to be let down, as the 43-year-old is determined to wait until the season concludes before giving his future any serious thought.

"I'm in no rush," he stated. "I will not discuss my future. My complete focus is on finishing this season with something to show for it — something meaningful for the players and the fans."

Andoni Iraola's Most Likely Landing Spot

Although Iraola remains on United's radar, the Red Devils are expected to heed the wishes of several senior squad members by holding talks with Carrick about a permanent appointment, given that he has surpassed expectations over his five months in charge and guided the club to Champions League qualification.

That positions Chelsea as the most prominent suitor. The Blues are in desperate need of Premier League-proven management and, while Iraola may not carry the most glamorous reputation, his record at Bournemouth — a club on the verge of breaking into the Champions League — makes a compelling case.

However, Chelsea are not the only club pursuing Iraola. They are not even the sole Premier League side in the running, as Crystal Palace have identified him as their top target to succeed Oliver Glasner, who is himself set for a high-profile exit at the end of the campaign.

Palace, though nominally a lower-table club, possess greater financial resources than those at Bournemouth, and a substantial offer could easily capture Iraola's attention — especially if Chelsea and United are slow to make their moves.

While Palace have zeroed in exclusively on Iraola, Chelsea in particular are casting a wide net across a lengthy list of candidates. Former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is prominently featured on their radar, and there has also been speculation surrounding a potential approach for Fulham's Marco Silva. Como's Cesc Fàbregas and former Flamengo boss Filipe Luís are also believed to be under consideration — both of whom previously represented Chelsea as players.