The Man Utd-linked manager is drawing up a four-man shortlist of non-negotiable signings
JULEN LOPETEGUI has a list of four players from Spain he wants to sign if he gets a job in the Premier League.
The former Wolves boss is chasing a return to top flight and has set targets for attack.
The 57-year-old Lopetegui quit in August after finding out he would not receive support in the transfer market.
He won't take another job until he knows there is money for his wanted men.
The Spaniard is set to replace Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, according to reports.
According to RelevoThe Red Devils chiefs were impressed with the work he did at Wolves last season, while his experience of winning the Europa League with Sevilla also earned him a European reputation.
It is said that this has given him an edge over the likes of Graham Potter or Roberto de Zerbi.
Meanwhile, his command of the English language has also given him an edge over Zinedine Zidane.
According to reports, Lopetegui, 57, wants to continue his career in England after falling in love with the culture.
He confessed the wish in an interview with Sky Sports, in which he called English football culture “special” and also admitted that he had already turned down jobs from abroad.
He said: “That's why I've said no to different countries and different situations because I would like to stay here in England. I feel like our team is just starting out here and we want to achieve our dreams.
“The way the country lives football here is special: it is the best league in the world, the most competitive league in the world, and also the best environment for the players, coaches and fans.
“I have fought for titles, I have fought for different causes, but of course the most important thing is to feel that you have a project that you can put your stamp on, that you can work on and improve the performance of the entire club .
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“If you ask me, I would like this kind of challenge and achieve every goal of the club.
“I have to be ready. When you take on a challenge, it's not just about the players and the way you want to play…
“I think you have to understand where you are, what the culture of the club is and also what the history is.”