Sao Paulo, April 24 (IANS): Brazilian football club Sao Paulo have called off their pursuit of former Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella.

Sabella had been the favourite to replace Muricy Ramalho, who stepped down earlier this month due to health problems. Despite agreeing to preliminary talks, Sabella told Sao Paulo he could not yet make a decision due to his interest in coaching an undisclosed Premier League club in England, reports Xinhua.

"We have decided that we can't wait any longer. He said right from the beginning that he wouldn't have a quick response. So it was better for both sides. He wants to coach in Europe, in the Premier League. That's why there was no way he could respond quickly," Sao Paulo vice-president Ataide Gil Guerrero said.

Guerrero said Sabella had provided a list of other candidates that he recommended for the job. The official added that he hoped Sabella would coach the club in future.

"He gave us some recommendations. I have a plan B but I still don't want to talk about that. I am a fan of his. He answered my calls and was very cordial. I guarantee that one day he will come here," Guerrero said.

Sabella has not coached since announcing an indefinite sabbatical after guiding Argentina to last year's World Cup final.

Chile national coach Jorge Sampaoli has reportedly expressed interest in the Sao Paulo job but would not be available until after the Copa America in early July.