Leeds have appointed Javi Gracia as their new manager on a “flexible contract”.
He replaces Jesse Marsch, who was was sacked by the club on February 6.
Leeds U21s coach Michael Skubala took caretaker charge of the past three matches, but a 1-0 defeat on Saturday to relegation rivals Everton has left the club two points from safety.
Gracia, who kept Watford in the Premier League during the 2018-19 season and also led them to the FA Cup final, has been out of work since leaving Al Saad in Qatar last June.
Confirming Gracia’s appointment, Leeds said in a statement: “Leeds United are delighted to announce the club have agreed terms with Javi Gracia to become men’s first team head coach, subject to obtaining a work permit.
“The experienced 52-year-old has agreed a flexible contract at Elland Road.”
Leeds host rock-bottom Southampton in a crucial fixture on Saturday.