Louis van Gaal had his eye on the Belgium job back in 2016, with the Dutchman freshly sacked by Manchester United and the Belgians looking for a reset after flattering to deceive in yet another major tournament.
Van Gaal liked the look of the golden generation of talent available and let it be known that his wife Truus was fond of the beachside resort of Knokke, where they are still planning to buy a property.
So when Roberto Martinez, who pipped him to the appointment six years ago, was dismissed on Thursday after a 0-0 draw with Croatia confirmed Belgium’s exit, it was put to the Netherlands boss that he might still be interested.