Aston Villa are reportedly on the verge of announcing Steve Bruce as their new manager despite late interest from other managers in the vacant position, as reported by the Mirror.
It is thought the former Hull City boss will be confirmed as Villa manager within the week after he reportedly held talks with the West Midlands club's technical director Steve Round.
Reports suggest with the deal now thought to be all but confirmed, it would require a significant turn of events for Bruce not to secure the position. Doubt has crept in after reports of a number of high-profile managers voiced their interest in the role but it is understood it is unlikely the job will be offered to anyone else but Bruce.
The race to become Roberto Di Matteo's successor had been cut down to just two candidates last week, with Bruce and current assistant manager Steve Clarke both in contention.
Clarke, who joined Villa as assistant manager alongside Di Matteo, is now currently caretaker manager of the club and it is thought the squad hold the former Reading boss in high esteem. But Bruce's wealth of experience in achieving promotion has been duly noted by the Villa board.
The former Wigan boss has achieved promotion from the Championship on four occasions with the likes of Birmingham, Hull and the Lactics.
The future role of Clarke at Villa is still undecided but according to the Mirror, the Scot could retain his position. Bruce, however, has reportedly held discussions with close aides as to the make-up of his backroom team upon his arrival at Villa.
His first game in charge of the former Premier League club could be as soon as next week against West Midland rivals Wolves if a contract can be sorted swiftly.
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