Leeds United have sacked their Director of Football Victor Orta according to their official club website.

In a statement made by owner Andrea Radrizzani, the club says “I am deeply saddened. However, it is clear that it is time to change direction and therefore we have agreed that Victor will leave the club. We have four cup finals left to play this season and working together, I believe we can survive.”

Spaniard Orta was appointed by Radrizzani back in 2017 and was responsible for hiring Argentinian coach Marcelo Bielsa, a man still heralded widely by the Leeds fanbase.

The news comes on the day that Leeds are also expected to part ways with head coach Javi Gracia, whose job was left dangling by a thread after an embarrassing 4-1 defeat at Bournemouth on Sunday. Former England manager Sam Allardyce has emerged as the red-hot favorite to be the new man in the hot seat at Elland Road.

Leeds United news: Director of Football Victor Orta fired by the club

Leeds United remain outside the relegation for the time being but only on goal difference and with their four remaining games including a trip to Manchester City and a home fixture to Champions League-chasing Newcastle United, a change was believed to be necessary by the Leeds United board who will know the effects of relegation from the Premier League more than most, after the clubs 16 years in the wilderness outside the top flight after dropping down to the second tier in 2004.