Everton boss David Moyes is set to be appointed as the new manager of Manchester United, following Sir Alex Ferguson’s shock retirement.
Fellow Scot Moyes, held talks with Toffees chairman Bill Kenwright on Wednesday evening.
Kenwright told Sky Sports News: “At the end of the day, David’s contract is up in six weeks’ time and he has a right to make his own decisions. He has served this club wonderfully well.”
Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has also been linked with the task of replacing Ferguson but Moyes looks set to get the job.
Wigan’s Roberto Martinez and Swansea’s Michael Laudrup are thought to top Everton’s list of potential replacements should Moyes, as expected, be confirmed as United’s next manager.
The Scot, 50, is expected to tell Everton players and staff of his decision to join United at a training ground meeting on Thursday morning.
Kenwright added that he thought Moyes would still be in charge of the Toffees on Sunday, when they entertain West Ham for what would be the former Preston manager’s final home game in charge.
David Moyes factfile
- Started playing career at Celtic and finished at Preston, where he played alongside young loan signing David Beckham between February and March 1995
- Ten months after guiding Preston to the Division One play-off final, Moyes took over at Everton from Walter Smith in March 2002
- Gave Wayne Rooney his Premier League debut in August 2002 before selling him to Manchester United two years later for £20m
- Steered Everton to fourth in 2005 and place in qualifying stages of Champions League
- Took Everton to FA Cup final in 2009, where they lost 2-1 to Chelsea after beating Man United in semi-final
Everton, who reached the FA Cup semi-finals this season, are currently sixth in the Premier League table, six points adrift of Tottenham in fifth but five above Merseyside rivals Liverpool.
A number of high-profile football names believe Moyes is the right man to replace Ferguson, who won 38 trophies during his time at the United helm.
“He’s cut from the same cloth,” said former United captain Steve Bruce. “It wouldn’t surprise me if he got the job and I’m sure he would be very successful.
“He’s not had huge finances but he has still managed to put an Everton team together that comfortably finishes in the top 10.”
Former United assistant manager Steve McClaren added: “He’s a winner and has a work ethic similar to Sir Alex.
“He’s also built a dynasty and legacy at Everton. He’s waited many years for this opportunity and I hope he gets it.”
Former England and Everton striker Gary Lineker said Moyes would be a “sensible” appointment but said expectations would be enormous.