REPORTS: Eagles will expand their coach hunt following multiple failed attempts.

AFL.com.au revealed on Thursday that Melbourne assistant Andrew McQualter was debating whether to apply, while top target and Essendon assistant Daniel Giansiracusa had also decided to stay in Victoria for family reasons following his approach from the Eagles.

Although some previous front-runners have declined the offer, a number of certified assistant coaches have expressed interest in moving to take on the next stage of the restoration.

According to sources, the Eagles were getting ready to reach out to other possible candidates and were flexible about the kind of coach they needed as they gauge interest and hone a shortlist in anticipation of hiring someone next month.

While caretaker Jarrad Schofield remains a front-runner after impressive back-to-back wins, with strong support from players who have enjoyed his approachable style, tactical shifts, and interest in all tiers of the list, Brett Montgomery, the assistant for Greater Western Sydney, has been approached about the position.

The 49-year-old has spoken about holding casual conversations with chief executive Don Pyke on the application process while being focused on helping the team improve in the final two rounds.

Port Adelaide’s Josh Carr and Fremantle’s Jaymie Graham are other credentialled assistants with senior coaching aspirations who have chosen not to pursue the West Coast vacancy, while former Collingwood senior coach Nathan Buckley has also chosen not to put his hand up for the job.