Alan Pardew will be named the new Newcastle United manager before the weekend, according to BBC Sport.
Former West Ham and Charlton boss Pardew, sacked by League One side Southampton earlier this season, was one of the first names linked with the Magpies following the surprise decision to get rid of Chris Hughton on Monday.
Pardew is believed to have befriended Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley and director Derek Llambias at a London casino and, according to BBC Sport, is thought to have begun talks with the Magpies several days prior to the announcement of Hughton’s departure.
Former Tottenham boss Martin Jol, who quit as Ajax coach earlier this week, had also been linked with the post but was reportedly turned off by the offer of a results-based contract and a the lack of funds available for investment in the squad.