Negotiations have progressed with the former West Ham manager, and a contract is now being scrutinised by lawyers.

Although a deal is yet to be completely ratified, the process is entering its final stages.

Bilic emerged as Albion’s favoured candidate after impressing during two rounds of talks last week and the Baggies have subsequently made him an offer.

The 50-year-old is eager to join the club, and is ready to help oversee an important rebuild for the squad this summer.

It’s been two years since the Croatian managed the Hammers, and he’s keen to get back into English football after a spell in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ittihad.

Albion’s search for a head coach has been an extensive one that has seen several candidates interviewed.

Lincoln City’s Danny Cowley was an early contender, as was former Brighton boss Chris Hughton.

Former Wolfsburg boss Bruno Labbadia met technical director Luke Dowling for talks, and Charlton boss Lee Bowyer was also considered.

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A spanner was thrown into the works when Sheffield United’s Chris Wilder approached the Baggies voicing concerns about the ongoing ownership feud at his current club.

Wilder indicated he would walk out of his boyhood club if Prince Abdullah of Saudi Arabia won a legal battler against fellow joint-owner Kevin McCabe.

It’s believed Albion gave the LMA Manager of the Year a deadline to leave Bramall Lane, which has now passed.

Another high-profile manager of similar stature expressed an interest in the Albion job and the Baggies explored that option too.

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But Bilic impressed both Dowling and chief executive Mark Jenkins during his two interviews and he is now in the final stages of tying up a deal.

If the contract is agreed, he could be appointed this week, giving him next week to assess the squad with the board before the players return on Monday, June 24.

Elsewhere, former Albion defender Kyle Howkins signed for League Two Newport County and Barcelona are reportedly closing in on 15-year-old striker Louie Barry.