A new name enters the race to become Everton manager

Flamengo coach Jorge Jesus is the latest name to be flung into consideration for the Everton manager’s job.

The rumour was first reported by several Portuguese and South American publications on Tuesday evening before being picked up by the British press, with the Telegraph saying their sources confirmed the 65-year-old has been “put forward as a potential candidate”.

Jesus led Flamengo to their first Copa Libertadores title since 1981 with victory over River Plate last weekend. Just 24 hours later they were also confirmed as Brazilian champions, the first Brazilian club to achieve such a double since Santos in 1963.

He has managed 16 clubs during his managerial career, mainly in his native Portugal, including both Lisbon giants Benfica and Sporting.

His time at Benfica was the most successful spell of his career, winning 10 major trophies including three Portuguese titles and five League Cups, as well as reaching the Europa League final in 2013 and 2014.

He moved to Flamengo in June after leaving Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal at the start of the year.

Their Copa Libertadores victory means Jesus will lead the club to the Club World Cup, featuring Liverpool, which starts in a fortnight’s time.

That would delay his availability until just before Christmas, meaning Everton would have to persist with Marco Silva or employ a caretaker for an imposing set of fixtures.

Jesus would certainly be a left-field appointment compared to the other rumoured candidates. His lack of Premier League experience would be a risk, though his Portuguese and South American connections would provide a sense of continuity.

Whether there is much substance in this rumour remains to be seen, though the fact it has been picked up by a broadsheet paper suggests his name has at least been mentioned.

It is also encouraging to see that the club are thinking outside the box when it comes to potential candidates, instead of turning back to the likes of Mark Hughes and David Moyes.