Racing’s decision to fire Facundo Sava a week before the start of the season came as something of a surprise and president Víctor Blanco may yet follow it up with another startling decision if talks with former Argentina international Hernán Crespo prove fruitful.

It is understood that Ricardo Zielinski remains in pole position to take over at the Cilindro after departing Belgrano at the end of the Transición but Crespo has revealed that he is due for talks with the club on Monday.

“To coach one of the great clubs in Argentina would be something wonderful and is an aspiration of mine.

“Managing Racing seduces me, they have a great squad,” the 41-year-old told Radio Continential on Friday.

“I want to work in my country after so much time has passed. I am curious about a lot of things and so I am analysing the possibilities but my intention is to settle back here.”

After a hugely successful playing career predominantly in Italy after leaving River Plate in 1996, Crespo moved into coaching with Parma’s youth divisions.

This eventually led to his first senior managerial role with Serie B side, Modena but in less than a year, Crespo was fired and has since been looking for a new opportunity.

“I want to be an elite level coach,” declared the former most expensive player in the world.

“I was developing and I went to watch lots of training sessions in Europe. My philosophy is to play 4-3-3 and that my teams have my mark so when someone sees the team, they know it is a Crespo team.”

Ricardo Zielinski still appears favourite but Crespo would certainly be the more interesting appointment, if something of a gamble for Víctor Blanco.

Racing are due to begin their season next weekend so early next week a decision should be made.