It's a very difficult question to answer when we don't know the state of mind of the contenders. There are several out of work managers that would, potentially, be a much better bet than giving NP yet another chance. The very best we'd achieve under NP next season is 'same again' and we ought to be aiming for better. NPs had his chance. I think we've only ever given Pleat an equivalent amount of time to do nothing.
My obvious first choice is MON. If he's got a desire to do the job then it's a no-brainer.
Secondly, I'd love us to try Di Matteo. If he's interested and keen, it would be a great appointment.
Next would be a list of out of work managers that 'could' do a terrific job, it depends on where they're at career, passion, attitude wise. These would include people like McClaren (a very capable and forward-thinking club manager who maybe perfect for us or terrible depending on various factors), Coyle (excellent in this league and initially with Bolton in the Prem, could be perfect choice, could be a busted flush), Hughes (has been a great manager with Wales and Blackburn but a shocker at QPR) or even McCleish (excellent job at Birmingham and Rangers, less so elsewhere).
Beyond this list, I'd consider Jackett as an interesting candidate. I'd also consider approaching Reading to see if we could sneak Adkins away. Maybe even Warnock for a season would be worth a shot, with someone alongside him like Steve Kean. The options are considerable.
With the exception of Jackett, everyone on this list has already achieved more than NP is ever likely to do in my opinion. I don't think Lennon myself, but I understand those that do.