Ivory Coast have begun talks with Guus Hiddink about the possibility of the Dutchman taking charge of the side for this summer’s World Cup.
Ivory Coast are currently without a manager after axing Vahid Halilhodzic following their disappointing showing at the African Nations Cup in January, and Hiddink is understood to be the top target.
Hiddink is currently contracted to Russia and will take over Turkey when his contract expires in the summer, but he admits he is open to the idea of taking the position on a temporary basis, telling reporters: “I have matters to resolve before I reach my decision.”
Ivory Coast football association president Jacques Anouma has now said Hiddink is on the shortlist for the role and that he hopes to make an announcement in the near future.
“Guus is one of the people we have contacted about becoming coach,” he told BBC Sport. “Probably in the middle of next week something will be concluded.”
Sven-Goran Eriksson, who recently missed out on the Nigeria job, watched as the Ivory Coast suffered a 2-0 friendly defeat to South Korea in London on Wednesday.
However, when quizzed about the speculation, Eriksson said in the Sun: “No, no, no – this job has nothing to do with me.”
Anouma also rejected suggestions Eriksson has been lined up as the country’s new manager.
“Sven has not been contacted but there were a lot of coaches at Loftus Road for the match and some have contacted me,” he said.
“Of the three or four in contention to become the next coach, Guus is the person we want but we are still talking to him. Talks are ongoing but nothing has been decided.”
Kouadio Georges was acting as caretaker manager for the South Korea match.
