Chelsea have confirmed they have been granted permission by Russia to speak to Guus Hiddink about becoming their temporary manager.
Hiddink revealed earlier on Tuesday he was in talks with Chelsea about replacing Luiz Felipe Scolari on a short-term basis until the end of the season.
The Russian Football Union does not want Hiddink to quit his role with the national team but is willing for him to share the roles.
Former PSV Eindhoven and Real Madrid chief Hiddink is happy to take charge of Chelsea on a short-term basis as he is keen to lead Russia to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
"Chelsea Football Club can confirm it has officially approached the Russian Football Union (RFU) for permission to speak to Guus Hiddink to become the club's temporary coach until the end of the season while continuing to be in charge of the Russian national team," said a Chelsea statement.
"That permission has been granted and Chelsea would like to thank the RFU for their co-operation."
If all goes to plan, Hiddink could take charge of Chelsea for the first time in this weekend's FA Cup clash with Watford.
Russian football chiefs believe Hiddink can successfully combine the roles on a short-term basis.
"We don't see it as a problem," said Russian FA general director Alexei Sorokin. "The timetable of the national team allows Guus to combine the two jobs.
A statement from the RFU read: "The RFU is prepared to agree to this proposal, especially considering that the combination of the two jobs does not go against the provisions of Hiddink's contract with the RFU.
"The RFU is convinced that this cooperation will not impede the Russian national team's preparations for the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
"The RFU emphasises that Hiddink will continue to carry out his duties under the existing contract, which stipulates that he shall head the Russian national team until July 2010.
"Details of (Hiddink's) combining the two jobs will be discussed during a coming meeting between the RFU and Chelsea managements."
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