Jokanovic is interested in Sheffield United vacancy

Sources in the Middle East, where the Serb is currently working after leaving Fulham two years ago, suggest direct talks between the two parties have yet to take place.

But after being identified as a possible replacement for Chris Wilder, whose hugely successful reign came to an end earlier this month, members of Jokanovic’s inner circle have let it be known the former Chelsea and Partizan Belgrade midfielder would welcome the opportunity to discuss the possibility of a return to England.

Aged 52, Jokanovic, who has also managed Watford, is now in charge of Qatari club Al-Gharafa SC.

Having twice led them to promotion, Wilder parted company with United nearly a fortnight ago following a series of disagreements about transfer strategy and recruitment policy.