Swansea City have made an approach for Barnsley boss Michael Duff, WalesOnline understands.
The Northern Irishman has emerged as a serious contender to replace outgoing boss Russell Martin, who remains set to join Southampton despite an ongoing dispute over compensation.
The club had seemingly set their sights on Brendan Rodgers' former assistant Chris Davies, but he is now set to join Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham.
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Steven Schumacher has also been a name considered, but sources in south Yorkshire have told WalesOnline the Swans have now moved for Duff, who guided the Reds to the League One play-off final last season.
The 45-year-old has two years left on his current deal with the Reds, meaning Swansea would have to shell out a compensation fee if they wish to complete a move.
It's not yet clear if he's Swansea's preferred candidate at this stage, but Duff is very much a leading candidate to take over once Martin finally departs for St Mary's.
It's been a frustrating couple of weeks, but Swansea are hopeful of installing a new man before the players return for pre-season on Friday.
However, should the saga drag on into next weekend, club insiders have indicated that O'Leary could now step in to put the players through their paces if needed.
Clearly, plenty hinges on Martin's move to Southampton going through, but there's real hope that we could see some movement over the coming days.
Pre-season plans are already in place, with the club poised to jet off to Spain next Sunday for a training camp. They then return on Saturday, July 1.
It's understood there are likely to be some behind-closed-doors friendlies when the players return, although exact details aren't yet clear.
The Swans then kick-off their summer schedule with a trip to Oxford United on July 21.
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