Sven confirms talks

City boss considering former club

By Francisco Acedo   Last updated: 8th May 2008

sven goran eriksson manchester city

Sven talking with Benfica

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Manchester City boss Sven Goran Eriksson has confirmed that he met with Benfica on Wednesday.

The Portuguese giants are desperate to persuade Eriksson back to the Stadium of Light - where he has already enjoyed two very successful stints, winning three league titles, one cup and reaching two European finals.

Benfica are staying tight lipped on the current talks - although their delegation, including president Luis Filipe Vieira and captain Manuel Rui Costa, were pictured by the English media in Manchester on Wednesday.

Eriksson is open to Benfica's approach after City owner Thaksin Shinawatra informed him he would be fired at the end of the season after a disappointing second-half to this year's campaign.

City's fans have reacted furiously but Shinawatra seems determined to carry through with his plans which include appointing Portugal's Brazilian coach Luiz Felipe Scolari as his new coach.

With that Eriksson is now attracting interest from all over the world and Benfica have been quick to open talks with the Swede.

Eriksson confirmed that a meeting took place, telling the Daily Mail: "I've had a meeting with the Benfica people.

"I'm considering an offer and it will be a step forward in my career. Let's see what happens."

Portuguese sources have revealed that Benfica have indeed made him a three-year offer to take charge with a salary of 200,000 euros per-month.

Benfica, who have set Eriksson a two-week deadline to take or leave their offer, have also told him they want Carlos Mozer to be used as his assistant.