Pep Guardiola held discussions about becoming Italy's head coach, Italian Olympic Committee President Giovanni Malago revealed to local media.
The Spaniard left Manchester City this summer after a glittering 10-year spell in charge that delivered six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups and the club's first UEFA Champions League title.
Italy have been looking for a new coach since Gennaro Gattuso stepped down in April after the four-time World Cup champions failed to qualify for a third straight World Cup.
Speaking to Italian digital sports platform Cronache di Spogliatoio, Malago said discussions had taken place with Guardiola and suggested financial flexibility could be shown for a candidate of his stature.
"Exceptions have been made, exceptions that, for example, may concern the name dominating discussion right now: Pep Guardiola," Malago said.
