Luiz Felipe Scolari has distanced himself from speculation he will replace Sven-Goran Eriksson as Manchester City manager while Benfica claim the Swede is their sole target to become head coach.

Scolari, who is gearing up to lead Portugal at Euro 2008, insists he is happy in his current role and has not agreed to move to the Premier League. "Portugal offers me everything I need," he said. "I have no agreement with that club."

The Brazilian added that he respects Eriksson, who has been told by Thaksin Shinawatra, the club's owner, his position will be reviewed after the final game of the season on Sunday. "I like him as a person and as coach," Scolari said. "He is a gentleman."

Benfica issued a statement on Friday confirming they have held initial talks with Eriksson, but said they would not reveal any more details until both clubs had finished the season. Carlos Queiroz, the Manchester United assistant coach, has also been linked with the post but Ricardo Maia, a Benfica spokesman, quashed these reports. "At the moment our coach vacancy has been centred on Eriksson and we will not reveal other names," Maia said. "More details about our future coach will be announced next week when the Portuguese league and the Premier League finish."

Eriksson, who became a fans' favourite in his first season at City, would begin his third stint with Benfica if he is appointed. A statement on the club's website said: "Following media reports, the club can confirm that it has had preliminary conversations with Mr Eriksson to fulfil our main coach vacancy. So far we have not discussed any contract details, such as duration or salaries."

Manchester City fans will stage a march outside the City of Manchester Stadium in support of Eriksson. A petition with around 14,000 signatures on it will be handed in to the club, according to Dave Wallace, the King of the Kippax fanzine editor. "This is not anti-Thaksin, it is pro-Sven and will be a peaceful protest," he said. "Whether it will make any difference I do not know but at least the fans will be able to register their feelings and let the owner know they are not happy."

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