Erik ten Hag has emerged as a contender to replace Xabi Alonso should he confirm his expected departure from Bayer Leverkusen.
Talks have yet to take place as Alonso has still to confirm his plans with Real Madrid waiting in the wings for the Spaniard.
But former Manchester United boss Ten Hag is on a list of potential candidates that Leverkusen would like to speak to should Alonso leave.
Ten Hag has a good reputation in Germany from his time working at Bayern Munich and was heavily linked with the Borussia Dortmund coaching role in January.
However, the 55-year old, who was sacked by Manchester United in October and continues to be paid compensation by the club, has been keen to recharge and take his time before leaping straight back into management.
Leverkusen are second in the Bundesliga, eight points adrift of Bayern Munich. However, Leverkusen boss Alonso is favourite to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid.
Erik ten Hag has a good reputation in Germany from his time working with Bayern Munich
Xabi Alonso is expected to leave Bayer Leverkusen and replace Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid
Ancelotti had been lined up to become national team coach of Brazil but that is now in doubt as Madrid have not given permission yet.
Though the 65-year old Italian coach is still expected to leave the Bernabeu, Madrid have yet to clarify plans of who will be in charge for the forthcoming World Club Championship.
Their reluctance to give Ancelotti the green light has put his potential appointment as Brazil boss in jeopardy.
