Former United States national coach Bruce Arena is under consideration for the Scotland job as chief executive Ian Maxwell thins down his recommendations for a new manager to the SFA board.

Arena, who twice took the USA to the World Cup finals, has put his name in the frame to replace Alex McLeish as Scotland boss - and his credentials are being taken most seriously by Maxwell, on account of his record.

The 67-year-old is believed to be the most intriguing option from a flood of offers from agents around the globe, promoting their clients for the role.

Former United States national coach Bruce Arena is under consideration for the Scotland job

Maxwell is finalising the process of his due diligence on candidates. By the end of this coming week, he and the SFA hierarchy will decide whether to target a preferred man for a permanent appointment or trigger the interim plan, which is likely to involve performance director Malky Mackay.

The permanent options feature two groups. There is a clutch of Scottish coaches - the direction talked up within the past week by both Old Firm managers, Neil Lennon and Steven Gerrard - including Steve Clarke, Jack Ross, Derek McInnes and Davie Moyes.

However, the other posse of contenders features various British and foreign options and includes the man who led the USA to the last eight of the 2002 World Cup finals in Japan and South Korea.

Arena also worked with MLS franchises New York Red Bulls and LA Galaxy before a second shorter and less-successful stint with the national squad, which ended in failure to reach Russia 2018.

Arena, who twice took the USA to the World Cup, is in the frame to replace Alex McLeish

At one stage, however, the USA were fourth in the FIFA world rankings under Arena's guidance first time round and that level of achievement has meant the veteran coach's claims merit a second look.

Another who has thrown his hat into the ring is former Swansea City and Monaco manager Francesco Guidolin.

The 63-year-old Italian has managed 14 clubs in his long career, but has been out of a job since he was sacked by the Welsh club two years ago.

Guidolin said: 'I want to end my career with a good job. I have a good CV and want a job that stimulates me.

'I'd like to take charge of a national team. Maybe Scotland, but despite me having a good season in the English Premier League, I am not so well known there. But maybe they will ask.'

A squad for the Euro 2020 qualifiers at home to Cyprus and away to Belgium in June will need to be named within the next four weeks.