The 48-year-old will succeed Marcelo Bielsa, who was sacked on Sunday, once a work permit is finalised.

Leeds sit 16th in the Premier League table, two points above the relegation zone, following a run of heavy defeats.

After leaving Major League Soccer side New York Red Bulls in 2018, Marsch first joined RB Leipzig as Ralf Rangnick's assistant before being appointed at RB Salzburg in June 2019.

He enjoyed a successful spell in Salzburg winning a league and cup double in his first season.

He was also part of the development of striker Erling Braut Haaland before the Norway striker joined Borussia Dortmund in 2019.

He then returned to Leipzig in April last year, this time as head coach when he took over from Julian Nagelsmann who left to manage Bayern Munich.

Marsch, who has been linked with the managerial vacancy at Celtic in the past, completed his Uefa Pro Licence in Scotland.

Guardiola & Conte express sadness at Bielsa's exit

Pep Guardiola hugs Marcelo Bielsa before his Manchester City side thrashed Leeds 7-0 at Etihad Stadium in December

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, who spent time with the Argentine before starting his own coaching career, said he felt "so sorry" for the 66-year-old after his sacking by Leeds.

"His legacy is there in the Leeds city and club," said Guardiola.

"Unfortunately the manager goes by results and they were not good, but in his three or four seasons at Leeds it was spectacular to watch and I wish him all the best for the future."

Bielsa left the West Yorkshire club after Saturday's 4-0 home defeat by Tottenham, with Spurs boss Antonio Conte saying he was "very disappointed" by his rival's departure.

"We are talking about an important manager and we are talking about a person that is a master for many managers in the past and in the present. When I read the news it hurt me," said the Italian.

"I have great respect for him as a person and as a man.

"In every situation he has shown great integrity and in football you can't always find this type of person."