4 Jun 2013

Martinez set to be appointed Everton boss

3:49 pm on 4 June 2013

Roberto Martinez is set to be appointed as Everton's new coach after Wigan chairman Dave Whelan said he'd agreed to a compensation deal with the English Premier League club.

Martinez was Everton's top choice to succeed David Moyes at Goodison Park after leading Wigan to a shock FA Cup final victory over Manchester City.

The 39-year-old confirmed he wanted to leave Wigan following the Latics' relegation from the Premier League earlier this month and Whelan has granted his wish after negotiating compensation of around $3 million.

Martinez, who had snubbed approaches from Liverpool and Aston Villa over the past two years, is expected to be confirmed as Everton boss later this week.

Martinez had already held talks with Everton with Whelan's permission, but the compensation agreement means he is also free to discuss contract terms.

Although the Spaniard failed to keep Wigan in the top flight this season, he is still regarded as one of the brightest young managers in England.

Martinez, who joined Wigan from Swansea in 2009, will be expected to build on the fine work of Moyes, whose impressive 11-year reign at Everton convinced Manchester United to hire him as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor.