Eriksson could forge French connection

Sven Goran Eriksson is in talks with three clubs and one national association about an imminent return to management, the Swede's agent, Athole Still, told The Independent last night.

Marseilles appear to be his favoured option, with Paris St-Germain also interested, and Tord Grip, Eriksson's assistant at Lazio and with England, yesterday went as far as saying: "It's true. We are on our way and it should be completed by new year."

Still declined to confirm that, saying only: "There are four genuine live possibilities and nothing has been concluded yet. One is a national association, three are well-known clubs."

No English sides are involved. The national association is believed to be Qatar, although Nigeria and the United States have also shown interest since Eriksson left his England post after the World Cup flop.