New Leeds United owner Radrizzani buys time to get to know Monk

The 38-year-old’s current deal had been due to run out at the end of next month, something that had alerted Middlesbrough to his potential availability.

Radrizzani, however, wants Monk to stay and the duo have met twice since the Italian businessman’s full takeover of the club. Further discussions are planned as Leeds’s new owner looks to build a relationship with his head coach.

“I think in my opinion it’s fair to have time to know each other because I am starting now,” said Radrizzani to The Yorkshire Post. “I never had a chance to know him.

“His first full season was last year and he was happy to give the club the option to continue, I don’t see any problem with us having this period and then, with more time and calm, we can discuss an extension.

“I don’t see personally this being a problem. If he has a different opinion then I am also keen and flexible to listen.

“I am open because it is our priority, but so far I didn’t receive clear feedback from them (Monk and his agent) about an extension.”

Securing Monk’s future is one of several pending matters in Radrizzani’s in-tray following his buyout of Massimo Cellino’s remaining 50 per cent shareholding.

Former Real Madrid director of strategy Ivan Bravo has already been added to the Leeds board, while Victor Orta is expected to become the club’s new technical director following his departure from Middlesbrough yesterday.

Angus Kinnear, the West Ham United managing director, is also set to replace outgoing chief executive Ben Mansford early next month.

Asked if Monk was happy with the new planned structure, Radriuzzani replied: “I met him a couple of times this week to intoduce the new management that will work with me and also to discuss in full transparency what worked and what didn’t work well last season, and how we can improve together for the season.

“You should ask him, but I had only a couple of meetings with him so I don’t know if he has enough information or time to make a judgment on that.”

United, meanwhile, have agreed a new four-year contract with Ronaldo Vieira following his breakthrough season at Elland Road.