The Spanish FA have prioritised talks with Belgium manager Roberto Martinez to take the national team role with Spain, say reports.
The Spanish native is leading Belgium against Brazil in the quarter finals of the World Cup on Friday, but Cadena Show El Larguero say he is the number one target for the Spanish FA.
Martinez has previously held management roles at Wigan Athletic and Everton in England, and he is undefeated in competitive games as Belgium boss.
Earlier this week, a report in Diario AS stated former Espanyol Coach Quique Sanchez Flores was the frontrunner for the post, with Luis Enrique, formerly of Barcelona, also in contention.
El Mundo Deportivo then said former Real Madrid defender Aitor Karanka has emerged as a surprise candidate for the position, currently occupied by Fernando Hierro on a temporary basis.
Hierro is not expected to retain his temporary position after the World Cup, although he could be moved back into a Director of Football role.
Spain exited the World Cup at the last 16 stage following a surprise penalty shootout defeat against Russia.
