Thomas Sorensen believes appointing Javi Gracia on a short-term deal will provide them with an opportunity to bring in their ideal candidate in the summer.
The former Watford boss arrives at Elland Road on a 'flexible contract' and has 15 games to keep the Whites in the Premier League.
Leeds missed out on a number of targets, including Carlos Corberan, Andoni Iraola and Arne Slot, while names such as Ange Postecoglou were also mentioned.