Oldham are eyeing John Askey as Paul Scholes' permanent successor.
Former Manchester United star Scholes stunned League Two Oldham by quitting as boss earlier this month after just 31 days.
The Latics now have Pete Wild back in caretaker charge until the end of the season ahead of Saturday's home game with Grimsby.
But mirror.co.uk understands Oldham are considering a summer move for Port Vale's former Macclesfield boss Askey.
Askey,54, has impressed at League Two strugglers Vale after taking charge in February on a contract until the end of the season.
Vale have lost just once in five games to boost their hopes of beating the drop.
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But Vale are in turmoil off the pitch after owner Norman Smurthwaite fell out with fans.
He is threatening to put the club into administration unless a buyer is found by May 5.
Smurthwaite has stated he will only fund Vale up to that date and claims as much as £600,000 will be needed to keep the club going until the start of next season.
Wild won four of his eight games in caretaker charge of Oldham earlier in the season after Frankie Bunn was sacked – including winning at Premier League Fulham in the FA Cup.
