Claude Puel to become next Sporting Lisbon manager?

Claude Puel has reportedly expressed an interest in filling the vacant managerial post at Sporting Lisbon this season.

The Frenchman has had managerial stints at Southampton and Leicester City in the Premier League, leaving the latter in February to be replaced by Brendan Rodgers.

Sporting's former manager Marcel Keizer left the club by mutual consent last week after less than a year in charge.

L'Equipe reports that Puel, who has been out of work since leaving Leicester, could be tempted into the role at Sporting.

The Primeira Liga side claimed a domestic cup double last season but ended their league campaign 13 points adrift of champions Benfica.

Under-23s coach Leonel Pontes has assumed a temporary manager role at Lisbon until the club decides on a replacement.