RIO DE JANEIRO, May 14 (Xinhua) -- Former Brazil head coach Dorival Junior is the frontrunner to fill Sao Paulo's vacant managerial role, according to widespread media reports.

Club officials have held preliminary talks with the 64-year-old following the dismissal of Roger Machado, news outlet Uol reported on Thursday.

Dorival, who was in charge of Brazil's national team from January 2024 to March 2025, has been out of work since parting ways with Corinthians last month.

Sao Paulo is currently fourth in Brazil's 20-team Serie A standings with 24 points from 15 games.

Assistant coach Milton Cruz has been named caretaker manager until a permanent replacement is confirmed. ■