Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman has hinted he could soon take the helm at Barcelona: “Never say never.”
According to a report in Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo last month, director of the Dutch FA Nico-Jan Hoogma revealed an option in Koeman's contract to join the Blaugrana next summer.
Hoogma confirmed in an interview back in September that Koeman does have a clause in his contract that would allow him to leave for Barcelona.
He stated that whilst Koeman's current deal with La Oranje runs until 2022, he has a clause which would allow him to join the La Liga champions after the European Championships next summer – should they make a move for him.
He also indicated that there would be a release clause in place for such a deal, although declined to comment on the details of it, but confirmed that it applies solely to Barcelona.
“I have two more years of contract with the national team and I don't like to talk about Barça,” Koeman said, as cited by Marca.
“It's uncomfortable for many reasons, now I have a job and it's not fair to talk about this. If that opportunity comes then it comes and if it doesn't come, it doesn't come.
“There are more important things in life, but never say never.”
Koeman made 192 appearances as a Barcelona player, between 1989 and 1995, winning four La Liga titles and a European Cup in 1992.
Before returning as assistant to to Louis Van Gaal between 1998 and 2000, winning another league title in the process.