West Brom are closing in on Barnsley boss Valerien Ismael as their new manager after meeting a compensation clause in his contract.
And the expectation from all parties now is that the Frenchman will replace Sam Allardyce as manager, possibly within the next 48 hours.
Providing negotiations proceed as anticipated, Ismael will be in place for the start of pre-season training.
It will also allow him to play an active role in recruitment over the next few weeks as the Baggies attempt to return to the Premier League at the first attempt.
West Brom lost four key men from last season after their loan agreements ended.