Speaking after today's 2-0 defeat to South Korea at Loftus Road, Anouma told BBC Sport they have approached the Dutchman and hope to make an appointment next week.

"Guus is one of the people we have contacted about becoming coach," he said.

"Probably in the middle of next week something will be concluded."

However, Hiddink is not the only coach on Anouma's list, which he would not reveal in full.

Sven Goran Eriksson was in the crowd to watch today's friendly, and has also been linked with the job.

However, Anouma said he has not approached the Swede.

"Sven has not been contacted but there were a lot of coaches at Loftus Road for the match and some have contacted me," added Anouma.

"Of the three or four in contention to become the next coach, Guus is the person we want but we are still talking to him.

"Talks are on going but nothing has been decided."

The Elephants may need to look elsewhere if hiring Hiddink proves too difficult.

He would need to negotiate an early release from his contract with Russia, and would then only be available temporarily before taking up a new position with Turkey.

However, Hiddink would be open to the role if something can be worked out.

The 63-year-old told reporters in Holland: "I have some matters to resolve before I reach my decision."

Hiddink has previously coached Holland, South Korea and Australia, as well as several clubs, most recently Chelsea, where he worked with Ivorian striker Didier Drogba.

Ivory Coast need a coach for their World Cup campaign, where they will face Brazil, Portugal and North Korea.

Previous coach Vahid Halilhodzic was sacked after a poor performance at the African Nations Cup, as the Elephants were knocked out in the quarter-finals.