Slaven Bilic is keen to commence talks with Celtic over the manager's job, with interim boss Neil Lennon's future still in doubt at the Parkhead club.

Bilic is the latest name linked with the job following reports Rafa Benitez is high on the list of potential candidates with former Swansea boss Carlos Carvalho also declaring an interest.

The Croat has been linked with the national team vacancy but a source close to Bilic says he would be very interested in taking over at Parkhead amid the aftermath of a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Rangers in the league last week.

The former Hammers boss enjoyed a successful spell in international management with Croatia  however it is understood the 50-year-old would prefer a return to club management.

And Bilic rates the job in Glasgow highly, with sources saying, “Slaven is very interested in the Celtic job. It is a massive club with great history and emotion.

“He knows all about the club’s history and the size of their fan base. He shares their energy and passion and thinks it would be a good move for him.

READ MORE: Slaven Bilic a perfect fit for Celtic manager's job, says old boy Marc Rieper

“They are a very popular club in Croatia. Scotland, Ireland and Croatia are very similar with similar size populations and very proud people who share the same values.

“Celtic have been very successful and should look to expand that success. Slaven would be good for them and help them improve further.”

Bilic broke several club records and enjoyed a successful first season in charge of West Ham, guiding the Irons to European football and a seventh place finish, a Premier League best for the London club.

However after a mid-table finish the following season and a run of poor results, the West Ham board pulled the trigger and fired their ex-player.

Former Celtic hero Marc Rieper recently spoke exclusively to Herald Sport backing his former team-mate for the Celtic hotseat and it’s understood Bilic is keen to speak with Peter Lawell and the Celtic board.

Fresh from a short spell as manager of Saudi Premier League outfit Al-Ittihad, Bilic has  previously held management roles at Beşiktaş, Lokomotiv Moscow and hometown club Hajduk Split.

During a successful playing career, the former West Ham and Everton defender amassed 44 caps for his country and was part of the famous World Cup squad that finished third at France 98 having lost out to the hosts and eventual winners in the semi-final.