David O'Leary wants the Newcastle United job.
The Magpies have been without a boss since Kevin Keegan's departure earlier this month and owner Mike Ashley is trying to sell the club.
Managing director Derek Llambias has been told to seek out bosses willing to steady the ship while takeover searches continue.
O'Leary, invited by pal Llambias to the defeat at the end of Arsenal last month, has been out of work since leaving Aston Villa two years ago.
And a close pal of the Irishman told The Sun: "David is desperate to get back into football and would jump at the chance."