Nagelsmann, 30, nicknamed the “Mini Mourinho”, has taken Hoffenheim to fourth place in the Bundisliga, and is rated as one of the hottest young coaches in Europe.

The former 1860 Munich and Augsburg youngster, forced to retire from playing at the age of 19 through persistent knee injuries, took over at Hoffenheim two years ago and steered the club clear of relegation, and then into fourth place at the end of last season.

Nagelsmann was highly touted to be Carlo Ancelotti’s replacement at Bayern Munich last month, when the former Chelsea manager was axed by the Bundisliga giants, before Jupp Heynckes was appointed until the end of the season.

The search for Bilic’s successor is well under way though, and has been intensified since Friday night’s demoralising 3-0 home defeat by promoted Brighton.