Pep Guardiola is coming to the Premier League after confirming his intention to work in England when he leaves Bayern Munich in the summer.
Manchester City are clear favourites to land the 44-year-old former Barcelona boss, although it is understood that he has not yet signed a contract at the Etihad Stadium.
And City could face competition from Chelsea, Manchester United and possibly Arsenal for one of the most decorated coaches in world football.
Speaking publicly for the first time since announcing last month that he will leave Bayern after three years in charge, Guardiola said: ‘The reason I have not extended my contract is simple: I want to manage in the Premier League. I have several offers from England, but I haven’t committed myself yet. When I have a new club, the club will communicate that. At the moment, nothing is fixed.
‘If I were 60 or 65 I would have stayed but I think I am too young. I need a new challenge. It was a dream, it is a dream. I am very grateful to Bayern for this huge opportunity. I’m going to give the best to the last day.’
Guardiola worked with City chief executive Ferran Soriano and director of football Txiki Begiristain at Barcelona, where he won the Champions League twice, three La Liga titles, two Spanish Cups and two Club World Cups.
Bayern are on course for a third straight Bundesliga title under the Catalan, having already won the German Cup, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup during his spell at the Allianz Arena.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is known to be an admirer of Guardiola and will be in the market for a new manager at the end of the season after installing Guus Hiddink as a temporary replacement for Jose Mourinho at Stamford Bridge.
Abramovich wanted to appoint Guardiola in 2012 when Roberto Di Matteo was sacked and the Russian is prepared to break the bank to get his man this time. It is common knowledge that his wife Cristina Serra would prefer a move to London.
United have so far distanced themselves from Guardiola but that situation could change if Louis van Gaal fails to steer the club out of their recent decline.
And Arsenal could also enter the bidding should there be any change in Arsene Wenger’s position at the Emirates Stadium.
However, City remain by far Guardiola’s most likely destination, and their manager Manuel Pellegrini admitted on Tuesday that he would accept being axed in the summer even if he wins a trophy.
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