Bayern Munich have jumped ahead of Chelsea in the race to appoint Pep Guardiola.
Bayern general manager Christian Nerlinger has held talks with the former Barcelona coach's agent, according to reports in Germany.
Guardiola, aged 41, has taken a 12-month sabbatical from football after guiding Barca to 13 tiles in four years including three La Liga titles and two Champions League triumphs.
Bayern's current boss Jupp Heynckes has just 12 months left on his current contract, and is considering whether to leave the club when his deal expires.
The Bundesliga club's president Uli Hoeness stated last month that he would love to appoint Guardiola should the opportunity arise.
And Nerlinger has held informal talks with his agent Jose Maria Orobitg over the possibility of taking charge for the start of the 2013/14 campaign, according to German newspaper Bild.
Chelsea wanted Guardiola to move to Stamford Bridge this summer but owner Roman Abramovich could not persuade the Spaniard to cancel his planned time out.
The Blues handed a two-year contract to Roberto Di Matteo last month after the Italian guided them to their first European Cup success by beating Bayern Munich.
But Chelsea are still expected to be among the clubs who will move for Guardiola when he decides to make a return to management.
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
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