Former Manchester United boss David Moyes turns Aston Villa down

 

Sportsmail revealed on Sunday that Moyes had been formally offered the job at Villa Park but is now reporting that the former Manchester United and Everton chief has rejected Villa's approach.

Moyes is represented by his agent brother, Kenny, who was believed to have been negotiating the terms and conditions under which his sibling would have take the post.

Sources say new owner Tony Xia’s representatives held lengthy face-to-face talks with Moyes at the former Everton manager’s home on Thursday night but he has now decided against taking over the relegated club.

The principle consideration for Xia is hiring a man he believes can get Villa promoted from the Championship as soon as possible. A feat other candidates Roberto Di Matteo and Nigel Pearson have both proved they can do, with West Brom and Leicester respectively.

But Xia also wants a manager capable of being part of his Villa project longer-term, firstly getting them back up, then stabilising them, then making a push for Europe.

The key issue now for Moyes is whether he believes the summer could throw up a more immediate opportunity at a Premier League club, and whether he considers waiting for such a chance a risk.

Pearson was the preferred candidate selected by outgoing chairman Steve Hollis, while Di Matteo also impressed Xia's advisors but is reportedly in talks with Lazio.

LM