Arne Slot could be handed an immediate route back into management after emerging as a surprise contender for the vacant AC Milan job following his departure from Liverpool.
The Dutchman left Anfield after a turbulent spell in charge, with Liverpool opting to make a managerial change despite Slot guiding the club to Premier League glory during his first season at the helm.
While speculation has centred on who will replace Slot on Merseyside, attention is now turning towards what comes next for the 47-year-old.
Now, Milan are considering whether to make a move for the former Feyenoord boss as the Serie A giants continue their search for a new manager.
The Rossoneri are undergoing significant upheaval following a disappointing campaign that ended without Champions League qualification.
Massimiliano Allegri was relieved of his duties after Milan finished outside the top four, with the Italian expected to continue his career elsewhere.
However, the changes have not stopped there.
Milan have also parted company with sporting director Igli Tare, chief executive Giorgio Furlani and technical director Geoffrey Moncada as the club prepares for a major reset ahead of next season.
Arne Slot could be handed an immediate route back into management after emerging as a surprise contender for the vacant AC Milan job following his departure from Liverpool
|GETTY
The widespread restructuring has left one of Europe's biggest clubs searching for fresh leadership both on and off the pitch.
Former Tottenham and Barcelona executive Ramon Planes has reportedly emerged as the leading candidate to become Milan's new sporting director.
Meanwhile, the search for a head coach continues.
Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has been among the names discussed internally and Milan are believed to have already held talks with the Spaniard.
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Massimiliano Allegri was recently sacked by AC Milan | GETTYIraola's future, however, remains uncertain.
The 43-year-old has been heavily linked with Liverpool following Slot's exit and is believed to be waiting to discover whether sporting director Richard Hughes decides to pursue an appointment.
That uncertainty has prompted Milan to explore alternative options.
One of those is Oliver Glasner, who is also expected to hold discussions with the Italian club.
The Austrian enhanced his reputation during a successful spell at Crystal Palace, guiding the Eagles to FA Cup success before adding further silverware with victories in the Community Shield and Europa Conference League.
Glasner is available after leaving Selhurst Park and remains one of the most highly regarded managers currently on the market.
Slot's availability has also placed him firmly in the conversation.
Arne Slot was axed by Liverpool after the Reds finished fifth in the Premier League table
| GETTYUnlike managers currently under contract, the Dutchman is free to speak to interested clubs immediately following his departure from Liverpool.
No compensation agreement would be required, removing a potential obstacle for Milan should they decide to formally pursue a move.
The biggest question may instead be whether Slot is ready to return to football so quickly.
After an intense period at Anfield and the disappointment of losing his job, the former Liverpool boss may decide that a break from management is the preferred option before considering his next challenge.
Nevertheless, opportunities of Milan's stature do not emerge often.
Despite recent struggles, the seven-time European champions remain one of football's most prestigious institutions and are determined to return to the top of both Italian and European football.