Chile coach Sampaoli open to Sao Paulo talks: agent

Chile national football coach Jorge Sampaoli is open to talks with Sao Paulo about the Brazilian club's vacant manager's position, his agent said on Saturday.

Sampaoli and Alejandro Sabella are the favorites to replace Muricy Ramalho, who stepped down last week due to health problems.

"Sao Paulo have spoken to me and I told them what the conditions would be," Sampaoli's Brazilian representative Gelson Baresi told ESPN Brasil.

Sampaoli has been Chile coach since December 2012 and led the team to the round of 16 at last year's World Cup, where they were eliminated on penalties by hosts Brazil.

Baresi said the 55-year-old Argentine would be unavailable until after the Copa America, to be played in Chile from June 11 to July 4.

"They (Sao Paulo) know what needs to be done. Before the Copa America it won't be possible because he has a written and moral commitment," Baresi said.

"It's no secret that he misses the day-to-day challenge of working in a club environment. There are also other factors that need to be considered but that will be in Sao Paulo's favor if they continue to pursue him."

Despite Sampaoli's interest, former Argentina national coach Alejandro Sabella - who is reportedly being sought by Manchester City - remains Sao Paulo's first priority.

It is understood the club has given Sabella until Tuesday to accept the job. Endi