Several sources familiar with the 2008 campaign said Clinton had wanted Podesta to play a role in that race, but he had little interest in getting involved in the dysfunctional set-up.

Sources familiar with her advisers’ current discussions say there have been conversations about Podesta in a top role.

The two names most discussed for campaign manager or some type of senior role are Robby Mook, a respected operative who is currently advising Clinton’s team for the 2014 midterms, according to people familiar with his involvement; and Guy Cecil, the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee executive director who is well-liked by Bill Clinton and has ties to some of Hillary Clinton’s advisers. Both are veterans of her 2008 campaign have strong cheering sections among Clinton insiders.