With Billy Donovan saying that he will remain at Florida, Kentucky's next target will reportedly be Rick Barnes, head coach of Texas.

Sources said Thursday that that speculation is accurate and that Barnes will seriously listen to Kentucky's pitch.

Scott McConnell, Texas' media contact for basketball, said there has been no formal contact between Barnes and Kentucky.

Other rumored candidates include Texas A&M's Billy Gillispie, Michigan State's Tom Izzo and Memphis' John Calipari.

Kentucky athletic director Mitch Barnhart asked for patience.

"We have had productive conversations with various individuals over the last two weeks, and it's obvious that there are a number of outstanding coaches who could succeed at Kentucky," Barnhart said. "I'm confident we'll find the right man."