West Brom are edging closer to making their next managerial appointment, according to emerging claims...

What's the word?

The Mirror's David Anderson delivered a fresh update on Twitter, in which he suggested that Chris Wilder was the Baggies' top target and that, barring any late surprises, he will become the next manager of the Midlands club.

He posted: "Barring any late unforeseen hiccups, Chris Wilder will be West Brom’s new manager. Wilder is their No 1 choice and talks are continuing on finalising a deal."

An encouraging sign

The 53-year-old has been out of work since being sacked by Premier League basement boys Sheffield United back in early March, a decision which was perhaps unfair.

Wilder brought joy to thousands of Blades supporters by delivering their greatest post-war era, which included two promotions in four years, rising from 11th in League One to the Premier League - and very nearly into the Europa League.

In his first season in charge, United won the League One title with a whopping 100 points and did so by playing an attractive, free-flowing and attacking brand of football.

His recent experience and proven track record in the Championship makes him a very appealing candidate, especially as that's where Albion will be playing next season and he's available for nothing, so it's no wonder that he's the club's top candidate.

An update like this should leave The Hawthorns faithful absolutely buzzing as it appears as if the Baggies are doing their business early so that Wilder has plenty of time to get in and make the changes required to get the team back into the Premier League.

Having won only five matches all season, the supporters need something to shout about and they might soon have it, with Wilder looking increasingly likely to be announced in due course.

His attacking football will be a vast change from what we've witnessed under Sam Allardyce, even if results improved somewhat under the 66-year-old. That should only please fans even more.

The Baggies look set to embark on an exciting new era at the club.

AND in other news, Exclusive: Lawrie Sanchez backs West Brom for promotion next season...