Leicester City are finally moving to end the managerial vacuum at King Power Stadium, with the East Midlanders reportedly in advanced negotiations to appoint Gary Rowett ahead of their crucial trip to face Stoke City. The vacancy, which has lingered for over three weeks following the dismissal of Marti Cifuentes, has worryingly seen the Foxes' season spiral from mid-table mediocrity into a genuine fight for survival. A recent six-point deduction for financial breaches has only deepened the gloom. Leaving the 2016 Premier League champions languishing in the EFL Championship relegation zone.
Apparent candidates
​In the absence of a permanent successor, the bookmakers have spent weeks spinning a web of fanciful narratives. High profile names like Ralph Hasenhuttl and Sean Dyche were routinely linked to the post. Despite LCFC's precarious financial position making such appointments feel like wishful thinking.
Meanwhile interim boss and club legend Andy King has been forced to repeatedly distance himself from the role. King has been refreshingly candid, stating he has no desire for the permanent job. Additionally, and crucially, he acknowledged that the hierarchy would not be looking to him for a long-term solution anyway.
Leicester City's uninspiring choice
​Today, however, provides the most substantial update yet from John Percy of The Telegraph. The reporter is widely regarded as the most reliable mouthpiece for City news.
"Rowett is now their top target to try and lead the club out of danger, with talks expected to progress in the next 24 hours.Percy - The Telegraph
If negotiations are successful his first match will be a trip to a former club, Stoke City, this weekend."
Percy reports that Rowett is the chosen man to steady the ship on a short-term basis. While the prospective appointment is seen as a safe, likeable choice, many fans view it as underwhelming given their stature.
Yet the Blue Army will likely offer no complaints if Rowett's brand of pragmatism and man management secures their safety. The former Fox faces a climb to earn a permanent stay in the summer on a temporary deal. Nevertheless for now - survival is the only currency that matters!