Everton have not approached Marcelo Bielsa as Roberto Martinez’s replacement.
Reports in South America over the weekend alleged that the Blues had sounded out the Argentine as a potential successor to the currently under-fire Martinez.
Bielsa has been out of work since quitting his post at Marseille after just one game at the beginning of this season, citing disagreements with the Ligue 1 club’s hierarchy, and was previously linked with a move to the Premier League as a candidate for Swansea City.
But while Goodison Park officials remain tight-lipped on the claims, it is understood that no approach has been made to the 60-year-old, who guided Athletic Bilbao to the Europa League final in 2012.
Martinez continues to face a raft of criticism from supporters over Everton’s current languishing in mid-table despite guiding the club to the FA Cup semi-final later this month.
The one-time Wigan boss’ recent handling of Leighton Baines’ comments about a lack of chemistry within his under-achieving squad drew further anger from fans, who unfurled banners in support of the defender as well as one condemning Martinez, during last weekend’s draw with Watford.