Villarreal chiefs want to bring Michael Laudrup back to Spain.
Though new coach Juan Carlos Garrido has been assured he will have the job until June, Villarreal see Laudrup as their long-term solution.
The former Getafe coach has been out of work since leaving Spartak Moscow.
Villarreal are seeking a long-term replacement for Ernesto Valverde, who was sacked this week.