Last Updated: Thu, 08 May 2008 11:36
Sven-Goran Eriksson has confirmed that he has spoken to Benfica about taking over as coach if he is sacked at Manchester City.
The former England boss is almost certain to be shown the exit door at Eastlands in the summer as City chairman Thaksin Shinawatra has not been impressed with results in the second half of the Premier League campaign.
As a result Eriksson has been earmarked for a return to former club Benfica, who are looking for a new manager following the recent resignation of Antonio Camacho.
Portuguese broadcaster SIC filmed Benfica's president Luis Felipe Vieira and captain Rui Costa amongst a delegation from the club at a Manchester hotel and Eriksson has now confirmed he has held talks with them.
The Swede told the Daily Mail: "I've had a meeting with the Benfica people. I'm considering an offer and it will be a step forward in my career. Let's see what happens."
Benfica have remained cagey over the links to Eriksson, who first managed them 16 years ago, as they would not divulge details of any talks.
Spokesman Ricardo Maia said: "We will not comment on any suggestions of a future Benfica coach now.
"Whether someone is or is not in Manchester to try to persuade Eriksson, we have nothing to say about it."