Terry Venables guided England to the semi-finals of Euro 96

Venables has said he has not applied or been officially approached for the job.

However, the BBC understands that the FAI has made contact with the former England coach.

Speculation linking Venables with the post has heightened after one bookmaker suspended betting on the post following heavy backing for the ex-England coach.

Venables' career includes guiding England to the semi-finals of Euro 96.

And with Martin O'Neill and Sir Alex Ferguson apparently out of the running, Venables could arguably be seen as a front-runner for the job.

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Venables' agent Leon Angel has declined to comment on the speculation linking his client with the position.

"To comment would not be fair to any of the parties," said Angel.

The FAI said it would not be commenting before a decision on Brian Kerr's replacement had been made.

"The process is ongoing," said a spokeswoman.

Venables is currently employed as a television pundit.

He managed Crystal Palace, QPR, Tottenham, Middlesbrough and Leeds in England and also guided Barcelona to the Spanish League title.

The former England coach has been out of management since leaving Leeds in March 2003 after an unsuccessful spell at the club.

Brian Kerr's contract as Republic boss was not renewed after the side failed to qualify for the World Cup finals.