Saints managerial candidate Manuel Pellegrini has been offered a job as the new Russia coach, according to reports.

The Russian Football Association (RFS) has apparently targeted the 62-year-old after coach Leonid Slutski departed on Monday following Russia's 3-0 defeat to Wales at Euro 2016 which resulted in his side crashing out of the tournament.

The Chilean's contract with City expires on June 30, with the club having already announced the appointment of Pep Guardiola as his replacement.

According to AS.com, Russia have offered Pellegrini a "millionaire" two-year contract to manage the country until the 2018 World Cup, to be played on home soil.

Although he had seemingly decided to continue his coaching career in one of the top-five European leagues, with Saints earmarking as a potential replacement for Ronald Koeman, the manager is reportedly "very tempted" by the offer and is still to make a decision.

During his three-year stint at the Etihad, Pellegrini steered City to one Premier League and two League Cup successes.

However, he could not earn his side their first Champions League title as they saw their hopes ended by Real Madrid in this year's semi-final.