Benfica have confirmed that the search for a new manager has begun following the exit of Jorge Jesus.
Reports in recent weeks have suggested that Jesus will make the switch to rivals Sporting Lisbon, despite winning three league titles since arriving at the club in 2009.
It is believed that talks between the 60-year-old and Benfica have broken down on a number of occasions and his contract will officially expire at the end of the month.
In a statement to the Portuguese Securities Market Commission, Benfica revealed that negotiations were now "closed regarding a possible renewal of the contract that end on June 30, 2015".
"As a result, Benfica have begun preliminary talks on the potential candidates to replace the head coach," the club statement confirmed.
Sporting finished nine points behind champions Benfica in third place this season.
