Jose Couceiro has rejected reports linking him to the Hearts manager's job after the departure of compatriot Paulo Sergio.

The Portuguese had worked as sporting director at Sporting Lisbon while Sergio was in charge, and the pair are known to be close friends.

He had been considered to be a front-runner for the vacancy as he was already well known to Vladimir Romanov, Hearts' majority shareholder, having previously had spells in charge of the Lithuanian national team and FBK Kaunas.

It is thought that his relationship with Sergio – who turned down the offer of a new contract at Tynecastle last week – has led Couceiro to make it clear he does wish to be considered for the post. "I categorically deny I have had any contact with Hearts," said Couceiro. "I'm frankly disgusted that my name is being associated with this news."

Piotr Nowak, manager of MLS club Philadelphia Union, had also emerged as a potential candidate for the job, but the Pole has similarly ruled himself out of contention. "It is absolutely false to say that I have applied to be Hearts manager," he said.

Hearts could be tempted to look closer to home for a new manager, with Paul Hartley, the Alloa Athletic manager and former club captain, and Jimmy Calderwood linked to the vacancy. Calderwood is currently out of work following a spell in charge of Dutch side Go Ahead Eagles.

"It is flattering to be linked," said Hartley. "I spent some happy years with the club. But any talk is speculation."

Calderwood said: "I know they are cutting back and looking to place a bigger emphasis on youth but that would not put me off."

Colin Cameron, manager of Cowdenbeath and another former Hearts midfielder, as well as Raith Rovers' John McGlynn, who has previously served as caretaker, have also been linked with the post.