Under-fire Strachan is first pick for Benfica

Benfica want Gordon Strachan to be their next manager and are planning a shock raid on Scottish giants Celtic to pull off the coup.

The Portuguese club are huge admirers of Strachan (above), who masterminded a couple of Champions League victories over the Lisbon outfit during his time at Parkhead.

Now Benfica - nicknamed The Eagles - are poised to swoop on Glasgow for the under-fire Bhoys chief who could be in the mood to move on.

Strachan had a great start to his Celtic career and even this season took the club to their best run in Europe for decades, but it is still not enough to silence his critics.

And with Rangers favourites to win the SPL title a move to Portugal might suit all parties, with Benfica making inquiries behind the scenes. Strachan has never worked abroad but his knowledge of the European game is good and his style would also be ideal for the Portuguese domestic game - where Benfica have fallen behind their main rivals this season.

The Eagles are currently trailing in fourth place and began the search for a new coach last weekend, with Strachan's name at the top of their hit list.

Celtic would demand compensation, which would be a great financial result for them rather than the thought of having to pay off Strachan should they decide to axe him.

Strachan has told friends he is unhappy with some aspects of the job and is described as 'low' by close pals in the game.

So a chance to try a new challenge-without the hassles he has found in Glasgow - could be perfect for him.

The Celtic job has already attracted interest from several top names despite the fact that Strachan is still in the post.

Some well-known faces have also been canvassed, including surprise target David Jones of Cardiff.