The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has reportedly begun discussions with Pep Guardiola over the vacant Italy national team coaching job.
According to reports, FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini and adviser Leonardo travelled to Barcelona, where they held a three-day meeting with the former Manchester City manager in a bid to persuade him to take charge of the Azzurri.
The report said the pair outlined the federation’s long-term vision for the national team as Italy continues its search for a permanent successor to Gennaro Gattuso.
While it remains uncertain whether Guardiola is interested in the position, the FIGC is said to be making a serious push to appoint the Spaniard as head coach.
Former Italy manager Roberto Mancini and ex-Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo are also reportedly under consideration for the role.
The federation recently brought in Maldini and Leonardo as part of a sweeping restructuring following Italy’s failure to qualify for a third successive FIFA World Cup.
Guardiola is currently without a club after ending his 10-year spell at Manchester City, where he won 20 major trophies and posted a 70.8 per cent win rate.
The 54-year-old has previously said he plans to take a break from coaching after leaving City, explaining that he wanted to spend more time with his family before deciding on his next managerial challenge.