With Carlo Ancelotti's contract at Real Madrid set to run out at the end of the season, a surprise candidate from the Premier League now appears to be in contention for the role.
Brighton Hove Albion boss Roberto De Zerbi has been named as one of the managers shortlisted as a contender for the soon-to-be vacant position, according to Football Espana.
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Recent reports have suggested that Xabi Alonso is the favourite for the job, but fellow former Los Blancos stars Alvaro Arbeloa and Raul Gonzalez are also believed to be under consideration by the Real hierarchy.
De Zerbi has impressed many since he stepped into the Brighton hot seat following Graham Potter's exit last year, defying all expectations when he guided the Seagulls to a sixth-place finish in the league to secure a spot in this season's UEFA Europa League.
In this campaign, under his direction, the side currently sits in third place after winning five of their six opening EPL encounters, and has contributed to making the American Express Stadium a place most opponents now dread visiting.
Although Alonso is believed to be the contender most likely to receive the job at the Santiago Bernabeu when Ancelotti leaves, it is said that Los Blancos are still a long way from coming to a decision on who their next manager will be.
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The Italian tactician, meanwhile, is reportedly set to take charge of the Brazil national team when the curtains close on his time in Madrid at the end of this season.
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