Wigan Athletic chairman Dave Whelan has confirmed that a deal has been agreed for Owen Coyle to become the club's new manager.
The finishing touches are being put on what is reported to be an incentive-based contract as the club bid to get back into the Barclays Premier League at the first attempt following their relegation last term.
There has been no official confirmation from the Latics that Coyle is the man to replace Roberto Martínez, but Whelan told Sky Sports News: "We've agreed in principle a deal with Owen. We're just talking to his agent at the moment about getting it finalised.
"He's done it all before by taking Burnley to the Premier League. He didn't have quite the same success at Bolton but sometimes these things go against you.
Coyle suffered relegation with Bolton last year
"I've got to say of all the candidates to apply I thought he was the best.
"It should be all signed off today. His agent is here at present talking to (chief executive) Jonathan (Jackson) and get the deal done and he's operating as from tomorrow morning.
"He's got a lot of work on and has got to start immediately."
Coyle, who was sacked as Bolton boss last October, beat off competition from the likes of former England coach Steve McClaren.
Whelan was impressed by McClaren, and added: "Steve was a very, very good candidate. It was a very difficult choice between three or four who applied - there were over 40 applicants."