Report: Hull approaches Gianfranco Zola for manager post
Hull City has identified Gianfranco Zola as its preferred candidate to take the managerial reins, Sky Sports' Paul Vinnell understands from reports in Italy.
Amid the unsettling news of an impending takeover on Humberside coupled with being beaten to the England job by Sam Allardyce after publicly voicing an interest, Steve Bruce stepped down on June 22, leaving preparations for the 2016-17 term in disarray.
Hull recognises Zola as an ideal fit at the KCOM Stadium, and he's been offered a swift return to management after being ousted from his role at Qatar's Al-Arabi in June.
Earlier reports suggested Chris Coleman, fresh from guiding his homeland Wales to the semi-finals of Euro 2016, was set to be approached by Hull, but the Wales Football Association has apparently told Sky Sports News HQ that there has been no contact from the Tigers.
Zola, who has a chequered past in management due to sackings at West Ham United, Watford, Cagliari, and Al-Arabi, will face an uphill task if he takes the Hull helm. The first team has been hit with a deluge of injuries, the takeover talks hang uncomfortably incomplete until they resume again in September, and despite being a side building toward a top-flight return, the incoming summer-transfer business comprises of just Will Mannion, a teenage goalkeeper who joined from AFC Wimbledon.
Should the Chelsea legend take over Hull, he'll begin his competitive duties against reigning league champion Leicester City on Aug. 13.