Steve Bruce is understood to be have quit his role at Sheffield Wednesday - according to suggestions coming out of South Yorkshire.
Bruce has been involved in talks with the Owls hierarchy about the amount of compensation that Newcastle United will have to pay to release him from his one-year rolling contract.
A £4million compensation package has now been mooted with Bruce hoping to move closer to being appointed as new Toon boss.
Sheffield Wednesday have tried to play down rumours this morning as they battle to keep hold of Bruce after just six months in charge.
Were the former Hull City boss to quit his post, this would force Sheff Wed's hand and they would have to agree an amount which would then ease the process for Bruce to come to Tyneside.
United were training in the shadow of the Nanjing Olympic Centre - where they will face Wolves on Wednesday night - when the news about Bruce emerged.
Ben Dawson, who is in caretaker charge, stated earlier that focus was needed ahead of the Far East tournament.
"It’s a great opportunity for the players to show their appreciation for the fanbase out here," he said.
"It’s really exciting to be in China for the Premier League Asia Trophy since we’ve been asked to come in and look after the squad at this moment in time.
"Everybody has been looking forward to it and working hard.
"The staff have put a good plan in place and we are looking forward to two competitive games to get the pre-season schedule up and running."
