Nigel Pearson has emerged as favourite to replace Claudio Ranieri after being backed to return to Leicester.
The Foxes are searching for a new manager following the sacking of Ranieri, just nine months on from winning the Premier League title against all odds.
Roberto Mancini emerged as the early favourite to replace his compatriot but reports have since suggested that he has rebuffed an approach.
Pearson was then installed as an even-money favourite in Sky Bet's next Leicester manager market on Monday morning, with the bookmaker reporting a surge of overnight backing.
The 53-year-old left the Foxes in controversial circumstances at the end of the 2014/15 campaign, having clashed with fans, an opposition player and the media during a remarkable battle against relegation, which saw them defy the drop with seven wins from their last 10 games.
The club's board cited their relationship with Pearson, who also led them to promotion, was "no longer viable".
However, he is now favourite for the post with the bookmakers, followed by former England boss Roy Hodgson (6/1) and caretaker manager Craig Shakespeare (7/1).
Shakespeare will have the chance the enhance his credentials when he takes charge on Monday Night Football's clash with Liverpool, live on Sky Sports from 7pm.
Guus Hiddink (10/1) and Alan Pardew (16/1) have also been linked with the job, while Ireland manager Martin O'Neill has refuted suggestions he could return for a second spell.
