Let's go Dutch - Koeman in frame to take City job after Pearce pays price

Pearce was sacked at lunchtime and City chairman John Wardle immediately held talks about a replacement with former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was visiting the club for the first time ahead of his proposed takeover.

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It is understood that City have not yet identified a No 1 target, but the Thai party are convinced a foreign coach is the best way forward and have pencilled in Koeman as a candidate.

The former Holland international has expressed an interest in English football and is known to be seeking a way into the Premiership.

Koeman, formerly with Benfica and Ajax, said: "I am a person who likes to go outside of Holland, it is good for your experience. I like the way they play in England, how the people react.

"I think it is a pleasure to work there. The possibilities for most English clubs are much bigger because of their money. So, maybe."

City sources have indicated that a Thai takeover may not be far away and although former Ajax boss Co Adriaanse and fellow Dutchmen Louis van Gaal will be considered, they have ruled out moves for Sven Goran Eriksson and Claudio Ranieri.

Sportsmail revealed in March that Pearce was on borrowed time and he was given the news he dreaded less than 24 hours after the season ended with a 2-1 defeat at Tottenham.

Pearce, who will receive no compensation because of a clause he had inserted in his contract, would have been sacked regardless of the takeover situation after winning just 13 of his last 50 League games.

One manager City will not approach is Jewell, who resigned, as predicted in Sportsmail on Monday, in order to take some time away from football.

Jewell has struggled to deal with the stresses of top-flight management in recent months but is expected to resurface next season.

His assistant, Chris Hutchings, has been appointed as his successor on a one-year deal.

Jewell said in a statement: "I have made this decision with a heavy heart but I feel it is time for me to have a break from football.

"I have given everything I have as a person to bringing success here over the past six years.

"It is not an easy thing to walk away from somewhere and something which has been such a part of your life for so long.

"The intensity of football at the highest level, although completely addictive, is also very draining.

"I feel I would be kidding the chairman, my players and the supporters if I was to carry on without being able to put in the energy and dedication I know is required to be successful at this level."