Everton’s David Weir was last night understood to be locked in talks with Sheffield United about the managerial vacancy at Bramall Lane according to the Sheffield Star
The former Scotland international is believed to have met with members of Bramall Lane’s hierarchy earlier this week after expressing an interest in the role last month.
Keith Curle and Michael Appleton were also interviewed by United’s three man selection panel at a top secret location in Mayfair, London, on Thursday.
But Weir, who is now in charge of the Premier League club’s reserve team, has emerged as the leading contender with sources close to Goodison Park claiming negotiations about succeeding Danny Wilson are now at an advanced stage.
The 43-year-old spent four weeks training with United during Wilson’s first season in charge of United 17 months ago before returning to take up his present position in the North-West.
Although Roberto Martinez, who recently took charge of Everton following David Moyes’ departure, is keen on retaining his services, Weir has made no secret of his desire to enter management.
Indeed, he discussed replacing Moyes at the helm with owner Bill Kenwright before Martinez’s appointment.
Senior figures at United, including chief executive Julian Winter, have spent the past 72 hours attending the Football League’s summer conference in Portugal.
But with delegates having now left the Tivoli Marina Hotel, Vilamoura, discussions aimed at unveiling Wilson’s replacement are expected together pace this morning.
United received a flurry of late applications in the position which became vacant when Danny Wilson was relieved of his duties 60 days ago.
Weir, who started his career at Falkirk before joining Hearts and Everton, also boasts Champions League experience with Glasgow Rangers.
In 2011, soon after becoming the third oldest player to appear in the tournament, he was inducted into Ibrox’s Hall of Fame.