Martin Vickers, anyone?

Ian Blease, maybe?

he would be the smart appointment if they could get him

He's done a phenomenal job at Salford despite their recent financial worries.
It's certainly no coincidence how that clubs fortunes on the field have changed for the better since he took over from Kockrash (That's not a typo error either )
At least at Leeds he would have the financial stability behind him to make the changes to personnel required to get this great club back to competing for the major trophies consistently again...In my opinion of course (This comment will soon be on everyone's post)

Would Blease be able to oversee/embed the incoming academy talent?

Just a genuine question because squad building is clearly a very different job at Salford. One he’s good at mind.

I guess that Matt is the guy that could answer this question best regarding the academy.

Leeds in recent years have had a great influx of junior talent into the scholarship programme and they seem to do very well under Mark Butterill.
It seems that their development doesn't flourish once they move up the pathway at the club.
Perhaps Blease could get better coaches to fill these roles rather than giving them to ex players from within the Leeds club for initial starters?

That is where the issue is , the lack of talent that comes through from an original talent base that is supposed to be exceptional when entering the start of the scholarship

leeds live reporting its blease.

Followed by Rowley the year after maybe.
Leeds Rhinos Reds to go with Leeds United Red Bull

stuff the leeds red bull up your backside!
but Rowley yes please

Shades of Brighton and Chelsea with these moves. Hopefully, this one proves to be more successful

Looks like my source was correct. Hope the next part is too, but I'll save that for now.

Coach or player related ?

Both.

Gary Hetherington said of today's announcement: "after an extensive world wide search of the back streets of Salford, we are pleased to announce Ian Blease as the new Sporting Director of Leeds Rhinos".

Only kidding, great appointment, let's see what his first step will be.