Race against time for Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, Celtic and Leicester City hero's Wigan Athletic green light

Only the lawyers are standing in the way of his appointment, with a three-and-a-half-year deal having been agreed as well as compensation to Leicester City, where he's been part of Brendan Rodgers' coaching staff.

The former Arsenal and Manchester City defender was established as the pick of the candidates – believed to be around a dozen – interviewed for the post at the end of last week.

Latics had been hopeful of making an announcement over the weekend, ahead of the players’ return to Christopher Park on Monday following a week off.

However, a number of issues put paid to that until now.

Wigan Today understands none of them related to Toure’s desire to take the job, which has remained steadfast throughout

Latics have also been negotiating with a few other figures who are believed to have been lined up as part of Toure’s backroom staff – known to him from his illustrious playing career.

Toure was probably the most expensive of all the candidates, given he was in work elsewhere.

It was a decision taken with input from all of the board – chairman Talal Al Hammad, chief executive Mal Brannigan, chief operating officer Dr Tom Markham and Oliver Gottmann – after a hectic few days.

Toure won 130 caps for the Ivory Coast during a distinguished playing career.

He was also a key member of the ‘Invincible’ Arsenal Premier League-winning side of 2003-04.

The shortlist did not contain Toure's brother Yaya - now coaching in the Tottenham Academy - who asked not to be considered.

It's understood the criteria for the new man included playing a positive brand of football, as well as understanding the budget, the club, the town and the culture.

Latics return to action at Millwall on Saturday, December 10.

They currently lie third-bottom of the Championship, in the drop zone only on goal difference – but a mere eight points off a play-off spot.

Leam Richardson was relieved of his duties on November 10, a year and a half after being appointed as the club’s permanent manager.