Erik ten Hag has emerged as a competition to replace Xabi Alonso if he confirms his expected departure from Bayer Leverkusen.
The conversations still have to take place because Alonso still has to confirm his plans with Real Madrid who waits for the Spaniard in the wings.
But former Manchester United -Baas ten Hag is on a list of potential candidates with whom Leverkusen would like to speak if Alonso would leave.
Ten Hag has a good reputation in Germany from his time in Bayern Munich and was heavily connected to the coaching role of Borussia Dortmund in January.
The 55-year-old, who was fired by Manchester United and still paid compensation by the club in October, wanted to charge and take his time before jumping back into management immediately.
Leverkusen are second in the Bundesliga, eight points on drift from Bayern Munich. Leverkusen -Baas Alonso is a favorite to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid.
Ancelotti was drawn up to become the national team coach of Brazil, but that is now in doubt because Madrid has not yet given permission.
Although the 65-year-old Italian coach is still expected to leave the Bernabeu, Madrid still has to clarify plans of who will be in charge of the upcoming World Club championship.
Their reluctance to give Ancelotti the green light has jeopardized his potential agreement as Brazil.