DENNIS Wise could be unveiled as Town's boss as early as Friday with an agreement tantalisingly close.

Deputy chairman Mark Devlin has confirmed discussions have now taken place with the former Millwall player-manager.

The Swindon Advertiser understands 39-year-old Wise gave an impressive interview, expressing a real desire to get his teeth into the task and the wheels are now in motion for an agreement to be concluded and contracts signed.

However, Devlin feels the issue is best dealt with in a relatively low-key way, especially with the precise fate of existing boss Iffy Onuora still to be determined.

Onuora is expected to meet with Devlin today for talks about his future.

Devlin said: "All I am able to say at present is to confirm talks have taken place and that we are hoping to be in a position to make things public in the next few days, possibly Friday."

As exclusively revealed in yesterday's Swindon Advertiser, former Uruguay international Gus Poyet is expected to follow Wise to Wiltshire.

Meanwhile, Wise's colourful' representative is remaining unusually tight-lipped over his client's future plans although Town have now confirmed talks are underway with the player.

Eric Hall is the man who looks after the former Millwall player-manager's affairs but the agent famous for his monster' catchphrase wasn't to be drawn on Wise's movements.

The Swindon Advertiser was met with a polite: "I am not saying anything at the moment."

Wise's only full-time managerial experience came in October 2003 when he was appointed Millwall boss, replacing Mark McGhee.

During his 18 months in charge at the New Den he led the Lions to the FA Cup final, where they lost 3-0 against Manchester United.

He also briefly took charge alongside Dave Bassett at Southampton earlier last season, but left St Mary's after being overlooked for the manager's role in favour of George Burley and resumed his playing career at Coventry City.

Sky Blues boss Micky Adams has already said Wise will be welcome back at the Ricoh Arena if he fails to secure a managerial post.

He said: "Dennis wants a manager's job so we wish him luck in that quest but if he has not got fixed up, we have talked about him maybe coming back."

Meanwhile, Town fans are just hoping the managerial situation is resolved as swiftly as possible whoever the board choose to take the club forward.

Representatives of both the Swindon Town Supporters Club and TrustSTFC are hoping the next 24 hours or so brings some clarity.