Marcelo Bielsa's bonkers Everton plan: Former Leeds boss wanted to take the job - but in the summer

Former Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa was interested in taking the Everton job, but only in the summer after laying out his intentions during discussions with the club.

The 67-year-old Argentinian outlined that he needed several weeks to ensure the Toffees squad could adapt to his methods during his discussions with the club after arriving in London, meaning taking charge immediately proved difficult.

Bielsa also wanted to bring in eight backroom staff members and work with the under-21s and academy until the end of the season, according to The Times.

Sportsmail understands that his intent was then to then take up to the first-team in the summer, but Everton did not feel that was a viable option, with them desperately needing inspiration right now to avoid relegation.

Despite Bielsa’s arrival yesterday, there was an acknowledgement from Everton that persuading Bielsa would prove tough.

Bielsa held reservations over whether the current squad can adapt to his high-energy style.

Former Burnley boss Dyche is now expected to become Everton manager, replacing Frank Lampard at Goodison Park.

Bielsa was the preferred candidate to take the vacancy, but the Toffees feel a quick appointment is necessary and are now expected to turn their attention to Dyche.

Dyche's long-serving assistants Ian Woan and Steve Stone are also set to join Everton as coaches.

Stone joined the Burnley coaching staff in 2018, while Woan was there since 2012 - the pair left the club with Dyche in April.

Sportsmail revealed yesterday Davide Ancelotti - son of former manager Carlo - had been discussed as an alternative.

The 33-year-old coach, who worked under his father at Goodison Park, is currently part of the backroom team at Real Madrid, where Carlo is manager.

Carlos Corberan and Sam Allardyce are also of interest to Everton, should they fail to land one of the main targets.

The Toffees need to get someone in the hot seat quickly, as they currently second from bottom in the Premier League after 20 matches, with just three wins.

It does not get any easier as they welcome league leaders Arsenal to Goodison Park on Saturday, as they bid to start turning their fortunes around and climb away from danger.

They still have 18 games to pull off yet another great escape this season.