Dick Advocaat is apparently interested taking over as national soccer coach, but his employer United Arab Emirates will not allow his departure.

The Dutchman's agent John Smith said in a joint interview with the Sports Chosun and the Dutch daily Der Telegraaf that his client must stay with UAE through year's end under his contract.

Advocaat, a two-time coach of the Netherlands, signed a one-year deal in July with the Middle Eastern nation, whose soccer body has said it will not let Advocaat go.

But Smith added he will discuss with the coach on how to resolve the situation, hinting at Advocaat's interest in the South Korea job.

An earlier report said the Korea Football Association could hire Advocaat without paying a large transfer fee but did not mention his mandatory six-month stay.

Smith also said he has not yet heard from the KFA.