Aberdeen plan to talk to managers who are in positions elsewhere as they step up their search for a long-term appointment.
The Dons are looking to interview candidates this week and complete their search during the international break for what will be their fifth manager since Derek McInnes left three years ago.
Peter Leven is set to take charge of cinch Premiership games at Dundee on Wednesday and Motherwell on Saturday after Neil Warnock stepped aside following the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup win over Kilmarnock at the weekend.
Chief executive Alan Burrows said: “The club, working with our partners, have compiled a shortlist with a combination of individuals we have identified that meet the key criteria we have agreed, and individuals that have expressed serious interest in the role.
“We plan to conduct a number of interviews this week and, in certain cases, seek permission to do so where managers are under contract elsewhere.
“Our aim is to appoint a first-team manager during the upcoming international break.
“In the meantime, Peter Leven will continue in interim charge, assisted by Scott Anderson and Craig Samson.”
