The Iranian Football Federation (IFF) fired Ali Daei on Sunday after the national team lost a vital 2010 World Cup qualifier to Saudi Arabia the previous evening.
The defeat leaves Team Melli in fourth place in Group Two with just six points from five games.
With just three qualification games remaining, the IFF are looking to appoint the new man ahead of Wednesday’s friendly match against Senegal.
Ghotbi, who led Persepolis to the Iranian title last May, is available and is the front-runner according to sources inside the IFF.
The favoured choice of the fans and most of the media, his spell as assistant coach of South Korea could also appeal to bosses as two of the remaining qualifiers are in North Korea and Seoul – the two teams currently leading the group.
The 45 year-old almost got the job before Daei was appointed in March 2008.
Kohan is currently the coach of Iranian league team Saipa and was at the helm of the national team between 1995-1997.
Less popular among the general public, Kohan has many supporters inside the IFF.
A decision is expected to be made on Monday.
John Duerden
Asia Editor
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