Leicester City are reportedly lining up a move for former Liverpool coach as their new manager

Following the departure of Brendan Rodgers, Leicester City are reportedly looking to hire Rafa Benitez as their new manager.

Rodgers’ tenure as manager of the Foxes came to an end on Sunday, with both he and the club agreeing that it was time to part ways. It followed a dismal run of form that saw Leicester slip into the Premier League relegation zone, with Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Crystal Palace being the final straw.

The hunt for the Northern Irishman’s replacement at the King Power Stadium has begun, with a slew of names likely to be thrown into the hat. Graham Potter, who was relieved of his duties at Chelsea on Sunday as well, has emerged as a potential target and could be a strong contender to come in and guide Leicester to safety.

His update has emerged, with a highly experienced manager being considered as a possible replacement.

Leicester are “knocking on the door” of Benitez, according to Marca [via Sport Witness], and see him as a front-runner to join the club and pick up the pieces. The Spaniard is currently without a club and may be looking for a new challenge after leaving Everton last year after an unsuccessful stint at Goodison Park.

According to the report, the Foxes have made an offer to the former Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Newcastle United manager, but he has yet to respond as he weighs his options.

Benitez, who employs a 4-2-3-1 formation, could be an inspired choice for Leicester if a deal is reached, as he is a more experienced and proven option than Potter. The ex-Brighton manager may be the younger, more attacking option, but he may not be as prepared for a Premier League relegation battle.

It could even be argued that Benitez is one of Europe’s standout managers over the last 20 years or so, with his stock falling recently but Champions League glory with Liverpool in 2005 and a Europa League triumph with Chelsea in 2013.

He has managed some of Europe’s most powerful clubs and has never lost to Rodgers, and his tactical brilliance and winning mentality could help Leicester stay in the Premier League before rebuilding this summer, next season, and beyond.