Ivory Coast football association president Jacques Anouma admits he wants Russia coach Guus Hiddink to take charge of the Elephants (Evens to be Top African Team) at the World Cup finals.

Anouma is looking to replace the sacked Vahid Halilhodzic who paid the price for a disappointing African Cup of Nations campaign earlier in the year.

Hiddink’s appointment is far from straightforward, however, with the Dutchman contracted to Russia until the end of June while he will take over as Turkey coach in August for their 2012 Euro 2012 qualifying campaign.

Anouma told the BBC: “Guus is one of the people we have contacted about becoming coach.

“Probably in the middle of next week something will be concluded.”

He added: “Of the three or four in contention to become the next coach, Guus is the person we want but we are still talking to him.

“Talks are ongoing but nothing has been decided.”

The Elephants kick off their World Cup campaign against Portugal on June 15 in Port Elizabeth.

Ivory Coast also face games against Brazil and North Korea in Group G.