Eddie Howe is unlikely to become the new Sheffield United manager as a move to Celtic nears.
The Scotsman reports that it’s a matter of when, rather than if, Howe will take charge at Parkhead.
The only thing now delaying the 43-year-old’s inevitable appointment is finalising who is backroom staff will be.
It’s understood Howe has spoken extensively with Leicester City and former Hoops boss, Brendan Rodgers, about taking the job.
All of which suggests the ex-Bournemouth man is not on the Blades’ latest slimmed down shortlist.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
United chief executive, Stephen Bettis, has confirmed the club are considering five candidates to succeed Chris Wilder.
Among them is current caretaker Paul Heckingbottom. The identities of the other four are unknown.
Eddie Howe to Celtic, but who else is on the list?
It always seemed unlikely that Howe would be making the move to Bramall Lane to take over from Wilder on a permanent basis.
The Blades apparently approached him and were turned down – although that was later reported to not be strictly true.
Howe was certainly being considered by the United board, but no one has actually been offered the position as yet.
One name we know almost certain to be on the shortlist is Alexander Blessin.
The current Oostende boss is greatly admired among the Bramall Lane hierarchy, although there remain issues about the German being granted a work permit.
Another being strongly linked is Slavisa Jokanovic. Promoted twice from the Championship previously with Watford and Fulham, Jokanovic’s contract with Qatari side Al-Gharafa expires this summer.
Aside from that, the likes of Lincoln City manager, Michael Appleton, and Aston Villa assistant, John Terry, have been mentioned.
While there is also Howe’s former Cherries number two, Jason Tindall – who is currently assisting Heckingbottom.
