Barcelona director,Ariedo Braida, has conceded that Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri is one of a number of potential candidates to replace the outgoing Luis Enrique at the end of the season.
The Catalans are actively searching for Enrique's successor, after the Spaniard confirmed last week that he will be stepping down in the summer as he looks to take a break from the demands of management.
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Based on previous managerial appointments, many expect officials at the Nou Camp to choose a candidate from within the club, or indeed a former player who understands the Barcelona ethos.
Whilst an internal appointment appears the more likely option, a number of external candidates continue to be linked with the role, including Allegri, who has enjoyed a trophy-laden spell with Juventus and could secure the club's sixth consecutive Serie A title at the end of the current campaign.
The 49-year-old has remained coy on speculation linking him with a move to the Nou Camp and though Barcelona themselves have offered little in terms of hints at who their next head coach will be, their club director has indicitated that Allegri's name is in the hat.
Braida toldRadioanch'io Sport (as quoted byGoal.com): "Allegri is a friend and we know each other very well, but it's really not something we can talk about “ it's all top secret.
Barcelona's sporting director on Max Allegri: "We know him well, but at this time we cannot talk about it. It's all top secret." pic.twitter.com/MUSmTgeSbU
"There's a different name coming out every day in the Spanish media, from (Ernesto) Valverde to (Jorge) Sampaoli, from (Ronald) Koeman to Eusebio, who is coach of Real Sociedad and is a part of the Barcelona family.
Everything is possible. It's something I would prefer not to talk about."