Algeria want Sven Goran Eriksson as new coach.

The departing Ivory Coast boss is on the shortlist at Fulham to succeed Liverpool-bound Roy Hodgson.

But reports in Algeria suggest Eriksson, 62, has held talks with Desert Foxes federation chief Mohamed Raouraoua in South Africa with a view to replacing Rabah Saadane on a two-year deal.

Eriksson, who has had unsuccessful stints at Manchester City, Notts County, Mexico and the Ivory Coast after leaving England in 2006 is said to want time to think over their offer.

Portsmouth defender Nadir Belhadj, who could tie up a move to Lazio this week, said: "Eriksson is a very well-known manager in world football.

"He has managed big clubs and big countries. It would be a good thing for Algeria if he was to accept the chance to manage our side."