UPDATE 1-Ex HBOS CEO in talks for Alliance Boots job

* Hornby 'a leading candidate'

* Appointment would be a return to retail sector

(Adds confirmation on talks from Boots)

LONDON, June 7 (Reuters) - Former HBOS Plc chief executive Andy Hornby has been in talks to become CEO of Alliance Boots, the privately owned high-street chemist.

"Alliance Boots confirms it is currently engaged in discussions with Andy Hornby, who is a leading candidate for the role," the company said in a statement on Sunday.

"It hopes to complete the process shortly and a further announcement will be made at that time."

The new CEO role would report to executive chairman Stefano Pessina, Boots said.

His appointment, if successful, would be a return to retail for Hornby who was previously managing director of George, ASDA supermarket's clothing business. He was touted as a possible Boots CEO years ago.