SAINTS manager Ronald Koeman has said he is aiming to reach the highest level possible as a manager after it was reported he wants Guus Hiddink to recommend him to be next Chelsea manager.

The Dutchman joined Southampton in 2014, succeeding Mauricio Pochettino, and guided Saints to a 7th-placed finish.

He has previously worked at Ajax, PSV Eindhoven and Portuguese giants Benfica.

Initial reports suggested that Koeman was clear that he wanted the Chelsea job, however, it appears he was more on the fence.

When asked by a Dutch radio station about the whether he could be offered the Cheslea job Koeman said: "That's something we have to wait on."

In reference to whether Hiddink would have a say in making the decision he added: “I don’t know. Don’t think so. Ultimately the people who have the jobs who decide that, make that decision. But if Guus [Hiddink] puts in a good word for me it could have an influence.”

Koeman was then asked if he would like Hiddink to do that and replied: “Well, it’s something I always wanted.  I want to achieve the highest possible. Just like I have done in The Netherlands and that’s what I want to do abroad as well.”

Hiddink has taken over at Chelsea for the second time after Jose Mourinho was sacked following a disastrous start to the season for the London club.