Published Jun 8, 2026, 7:05 PM GMT+1

Emilio is an experienced football journalist who has worked at Football FanCast for over six years.

After graduating with first-class honours from the University of Central Lancashire in 2019, it didn't take long for Emilio to clinch his first job in journalism at Snack Media, now Valnet.

Emilio has written for a host of the company's biggest past and current football news websites - Vital Football, The Transfer Tavern and Football FanCast. 

Emilio's strengths include the intricacies of football transfers, while he particularly enjoys writing about the business side of football. He has covered Tottenham Hotspur on a weekly basis for a number of years now, developing a deep understanding of the culture and what Lilywhites fans engage with.

In his spare time, you can find Emilio travelling the world, or even in a boxing ring.

After Gary Rowett was unable to steer the club to safety, attention quickly turned towards who would be handed the task of leading Leicester back towards the Championship.

Over the past week, Martin's name has dominated the conversation.

Reports have consistently suggested the former Southampton and Rangers boss is in advanced discussions with Leicester and remains the club's preferred option.

Despite a difficult spell north of the border, Martin still has admirers thanks to the work he previously carried out at Southampton, where he guided the Saints back to the Premier League through the play-offs.

Leicester's hierarchy are believed to be attracted by his clear football philosophy and possession-based approach.

Club chiefs are thought to be keen on establishing a recognisable playing identity as they attempt to recover from another damaging setback.

The links have become so strong that reports have even suggested Martin is already considering potential additions to his coaching staff should he complete a move to the King Power Stadium.

Speculation surrounding members of his former backroom team has only fuelled expectations that an appointment could be edging closer.

However, Leicester are not putting all of their eggs in one basket.

While Martin remains the frontrunner, the club are continuing to assess alternative candidates in case negotiations fail to reach a successful conclusion.

One of those alternatives is now emerging from the Netherlands.

Leicester City eyeing Rene Hake as Russell Martin alternative

According to Voetbal International journalist Joost Blaauwhof, Leicester are showing interest in Rene Hake as they keep their managerial shortlist open.

The Dutch coach is currently part of Feyenoord's coaching setup and has built a strong reputation during his years working in the Eredivisie.

While Martin may be the name receiving most of the headlines, Hake is understood to be viewed as a serious option should Leicester decide to move in a different direction.

For Leicester supporters, Hake may be a less familiar name, but Voetbal adds that West Brom were once extremely keen to appoint him around a year and a half ago.

However, he brings significant coaching experience and has worked in a variety of roles throughout Dutch football, and worked under Erik ten Hag at Man United.

Ten Hag holds his former colleague in very high esteem too, calling him an 'ambitious' and 'driven' coach.

His reputation has steadily grown thanks to his tactical knowledge and ability to develop players, qualities that could prove particularly valuable during a rebuilding project.

The fact Leicester are considering alternatives is hardly surprising.

This is arguably one of the most important managerial appointments in the club's recent history. Getting the next decision right could determine how quickly the Foxes recover from their current situation.

At present, Martin remains in pole position and appears to be the man Leicester want.

But with Hake now firmly on the radar, the managerial race may not be quite as straightforward as it first appeared.

As Leicester continue weighing up their options, supporters could yet see another twist before a final decision is made.