Sources: Leicester City view Sean Dyche appointment as 'huge coup', Premier League plan clear

Leicester City see appointing Sean Dyche as manager as a massive coup amid their desperate fight against relegation from the Championship, sources have told Football Insider.[3][4][5]

The Foxes are in turmoil after sacking Martí Cifuentes on January 25, with interim boss Andy King overseeing six winless games.[1][4][5] A six-point deduction for breaching Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) in the 2023/24 season has plunged them to 20th place, just three points above the drop zone—or 21st per some reports, above Blackburn on goal difference—raising fears of back-to-back relegations.[1][4][5]

Dyche, 54, became available after a shock 114-day stint at Midlands rivals Nottingham Forest, where he was the third managerial casualty this season. He left Forest 17th in the Premier League, three points clear of relegation, showcasing his defensive organization and discipline—qualities Leicester desperately need.[4][5]

Sources indicate Dyche's close friendship with Leicester's Director of Football Jon Rudkin has elevated him on the shortlist, viewed internally as a transformative hire to steady the ship at the King Power Stadium.[4][5] The club is also hunting a new sporting director alongside the managerial vacancy.[1]

Other contenders include Gary Rowett, recently departed from Oxford United with vast Championship experience (418 games, 158 wins); Ralph Hasenhüttl; and a potential return for Enzo Maresca post-Chelsea.[1][4][5][6] Gareth Southgate has ruled out a club return.[1] Speculative names like Steven Gerrard, Roy Keane, John Terry, Dean Smith, and Michael Skubala have surfaced, but Dyche stands out.[6]

Leicester face Southampton in the FA Cup fourth round this weekend. An urgent appointment is critical to instill structure and avoid catastrophe, with Premier League ambitions hinging on survival.[1][4]

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