West Ham move closer to Grant capture

Avram Grant looks set to be unveiled as West Ham's new manager in 12 days' time.

It is understood that the former Portsmouth boss, currently on holiday with his family, has agreed a deal in principle to become the successor to sacked Gianfranco Zola.

Grant resigned as manager of relegated Barclays Premier League side Portsmouth on Thursday and subject to a final interview, he is likely to be offered a two-year contract.

Reacting to speculation that Grant's move to the Hammers was all-but signed and sealed, a club spokesman said: "West Ham United can confirm the club is making good progress in the search for a new manager and the appointment will be made by early June.

"The club is in the middle of a thorough selection process which could continue over the next 12 days before being finalised.

"The new manager will then have a month to prepare for the start of pre-season, with all at the club determined to improve on the previous campaign."

Grant's stock in managerial terms has risen substantially after guiding Portsmouth to the FA Cup final in a season when they narrowly escaped being wound-up and went into administration.

It is thought that Pompey received an approach for Grant on Thursday but the administrator Andrew Andronikou would not reveal their identity.

"I will honour the confidentiality," Andronikou said.

"We are talking about another manager's job," he told ESPN.