But the former Manchester City boss is currently still in China although it looks likely he will be arriving in England to consider the possibility of taking over at the London Stadium over the next couple of days.
However, reports in the Chilean media that a deal has been done with the 64 year old manager of Hebei China Fortune are not accurate.
Meanwhile, it has become clear over the last 24 hours from our own inquiries that Rafa Benitez is also very much in the frame and looks set for an interview with one other ‘mystery’ candidate over whom everybody within the club has remained tight lipped.
The club are now expecting to make an OFFICIAL announcement by next Wednesday or Thursday.