It is understood that, despite his experiences in this country, Fabio Capello would be interested in a return to London and a return to club management.
With Carlo Ancelotti ensconced in a £60 million-a-year contract with Paris St-Germain, could Tottenham Hotspur turn to another Italian should, as expected, Harry Redknapp take over as England manager?
It is understood that, despite his experiences in this country, Fabio Capello would be interested in a return to London and a return to club management. He is monitoring what happens at Spurs if Champions League football is secured.
Whether Spurs are interested in him remains to be seen - and there is understood to be no shortage of interest from across Europe in the post should it become vacant - but it sets up the prospect of rather a curious 'job swap' between Redknapp and Capello.
It had been assumed by some that Capello would return to Italy after quitting as England manager because he felt that he had been seriously undermined by the Football Association's decision to take the captaincy away from John Terry. But that is not the case. Capello wants one more job in club management and he wants it to be away from his home country.
The 65 year-old has had approaches from the Middle East that would be hugely lucrative, including taking on the role similar to that of a director of football across one of the fledgling leagues. But, despite appearances, he enjoyed working in London and does not feel disillusioned by the criticism he suffered while England manager.
Spurs are an intriguing prospect. Ancelotti was certainly in the frame before deciding he could not wait any longer, and could not turn down the money on offer at PSG. Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is also an admirer of another former Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho.
Rafael Benitez would also want to be considered for the job but the link with David Moyes of Everton - who Spurs face on Saturday - has faded. That suggests that, despite his experiences with Juande Ramos and Jacques Santini, Levy might be considering another European coach should Redknapp leave.
Spurs have held preliminary talks with Redknapp over an improved contract, with his current deal set to expire in June 2013. No formal offer is thought to have been made but substantial funds will be made available should he decide to stay.
Although Capello's demands might be a stumbling block - he values himself highly - he would be able to work within the system that Spurs operate. It might be a risky appointment as Capello has not worked in club management in England and had a prickly relationship with the media. But it would be a big statement.
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