Uruguay opens talks with Forlan for interim coaching

Former Uruguay striker Diego Forlan is in talks with the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) about taking charge of the national team on an interim basis, local media reported.

The move comes after Marcelo Bielsa left the role in the wake of Uruguay's group-stage exit at the FIFA World Cup in June, Uruguayan newspaper El Pais reported.

Under the proposal, Forlan would oversee six friendlies scheduled for September, October and November while also taking charge of the under-20 side.

A permanent manager will be appointed at the end of the year or early next year, AUF president Ignacio Alonso said.

"He's enthusiastic, although there are still some issues to discuss and we'll meet again in the coming hours," Alonso was quoted as saying.

Forlan is widely regarded as one of Uruguay's greatest players. During his career, he had spells at Manchester United, Villarreal, Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan. He made 112 appearances for Uruguay and scored 36 goals.

He won the Golden Ball as the best player at the 2010 World Cup after scoring five goals to help Uruguay reach the semifinals.

The 47-year-old's coaching experience includes spells in charge of Uruguayan clubs Penarol and Atenas.