Mick McCarthy is believed to have agreed to become Republic of Ireland manager for the second time.
Since the departure of Martin O’Neill earlier this week, McCarthy and Dundalk manager Stephen Kenny were the front runners to take over.
But RTÉ Sport understands that the FAI have made their move by offering McCarthy a two-year contract, with an option for a further two years.
The Association has acted swiftly and McCarthy, who is out of management since departing from Ipswich Town in March after six years in charge, looks set to lead Ireland into the Euro 2020 qualifying campaign.
McCarthy is expected to bring in Terry Connor, who worked with him at Wolves and Ipswich, as assistant manager and record cap holder Robbie Keane as part of his backroom.
Confirmation of McCarthy's return is expected this weekend.
Mick McCarthy is set to be confirmed as Republic of Ireland manager, possibly as soon as Sunday, with Terry Connor as assistant and Robbie Keane as coach. @corktod with the latest. pic.twitter.com/U321U2UYdh
— RTÉ Soccer (@RTEsoccer) November 23, 2018
McCarthy first managed Ireland from 1996 to 2002 and led the country to the last 16 of the World Cup in his final year in charge but his reign was overshadowed by a row with Roy Keane in Saipan and he resigned after a poor start to Euro 2004 qualifying.
After leaving Ireland he had spells in charge of Sunderland, Wolves and Ipswich.
Earlier today St Patrick's Athletic took the unusual step of endorsing Kenny for the role and urged other stakeholders in the domestic game to follow suit.
Kenny began his managerial career at St Patrick's Athletic as coach of their Under-21 side during his mid-twenties.
"We believe Stephen Kenny is the best candidate and that he has proven he has the experience, knowledge, commitment and intellect to change the current direction of the Irish senior team," the statement began.
"Stephen’s appointment would undeniably be a boost for both the grassroots and domestic leagues."
