Leeds United manager Garry Monk is holding out for a three-year contract, according to a reliable journalist.
Radio Yorkshire correspondent Joe Rawson took to Twitter on Wednesday night to deliver an update on United’s bid to tie Monk down to an extended deal.
Owner Andrea Radrizzani told Yorkshire Evening Post correspondent Phil Hay earlier on Wednesday that Leeds will activate the option to extend his contract for a further 12 months on Friday.
Detailed discussions will then take place about a longer-term contract after the two have got to “know each other.”
Been for a chat with Radrizzani tonight. #lufc will activate 12-month extension of Garry Monk's contract as head coach on Friday.
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) May 24, 2017
Radrizzani said he wants to talk to Monk about a longer term deal but that they also "need to get to know each other." #lufc
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) May 24, 2017
But Rawson gave Monk’s point of view as he explained on his personal Twitter account that the 38-year-old wants a contract that runs until at least 2020.
The journalist suggested an agreement is a long way off as there is “plenty still to be discussed” between Monk and Radrizzani.
Garry Monk wants a 3 year extension so plenty still to be discussed by him and Radz #lufc
— Joe Rawson (@joerawson) May 24, 2017
This update will alarm supporters, who had hoped that Radrizzani’s public stance suggested that an agreement was watertight for Monk to remain at the helm for a second season.
But there is still a strong possibility Monk will not be at Leeds beyond the summer if he does not get the assurances and long-term commitment that he wants from the chairman.
Radrizzani seized full control of Leeds on Tuesday after purchasing the 50 per cent share of the club that belonged to Massimo Cellino.
Monk is in a strong negotiating position after transforming the fortunes of the team following his arrival last June and is held in huge regard by the fanbase.