Algeria's 2014 World Cup coach Vahid Halilhodzic has emerged as a front-runner for the Japan national team job and a deal with the Bosnian could be struck soon, sources told Kyodo News on Tuesday.

Halilhodzic, who took Algeria to the round of 16 last summer in Brazil before losing to eventual champion Germany in extra time, is currently unsigned as the Japan Football Association continues its search for Javier Aguirre's successor.

Sources said the JFA, which prefers to have the new manager in place by the two home friendlies in late March, and Halilhodzic are apart on money but could reach an agreement sooner rather than later.

His brother, Enver, told Kyodo News that the process is progressing but that it is also a delicate one.

Joining Halilhodzic as leading candidates are former Danish international Michael Laudrup and former Kashima Antlers manager Oswaldo Oliveira.