Mark Robins is reportedly among the candidates being considered for the vacant manager's job at Birmingham City.
The Blues began their search for a new boss on Thursday after Chris Hughton's switch to Norwich City was confirmed.
Former Huddersfield Town manager Lee Clark has been made the early favourite to replace Hughton, but the St Andrews club are said to be planning a thorough and widespread interview process.
It is understood that Birmingham would prefer to appoint someone who is currently unemployed so that they do not need to pay out compensation.
Robins has been without a club for 13 months and Birmingham bosses intend to hold talks with the 42-year-old, according to The Sun.
Barnsley parted company with Robins in May 2011 following a disagreement over the club's budget.