Retail veteran and former Asda executive Ian McLeod has reportedly emerged as the frontrunner to succeed Roger Burnley as chief executive of the grocer.

Asda has reportedly approached McLeod to discuss the role following the abrupt exit of Roger Burnley earlier this month. 

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McLeod is currently the boss of Asian retailer Dairy Farm International, which operates a 10,000-strong store estate, and has previously helmed Halfords, Celtic FC and Australian supermarket chain Coles.

He was also part of the executive team at Asda prior to its sale to former owner Walmart under Archie Norman and Allan Leighton.

According to The Times, Morrisons chief executive David Potts, Tesco UK boss Jason Tarry and Booker’s Andrew Yaxley have all also been approached for the top job at Asda, but none are thought to be in contention for the role.

The search to secure a chief executive for the grocer has picked up speed following Burnley’s exit earlier this month.