Koeman in pole position to replace Setien as the new Barcelona coach

Ronald Koeman could be the new FC Barcelona coach. The Dutchman's chances of replacing Quique Setien at Camp Nou have decreased in recent hours, with Setien's dismissal set to be confirmed at Monday's board meeting. 

Barça president Josep Maria Bartomeu, as SPORT revealed over the weekend, has personally negotiated with the former Barça player, who will have to accept a one year plus one optional year deal due to the upcoming elections in 2021. Koeman will also have to leave his role with the Netherlands prior to next summer's European Championships. 

However, there are other names still on the table in the form of Mauricio Pochettino (ex-Tottenham) and García Pimienta (Barça B), although it seems Koeman generates the biggest consensus among the board. 

There are two reasons for that: he has the character to take on big decisions (the squad needs a deep clean) without worrying and he also has a good reputation among supporters due to being a key member of the Dream Team and the hero of Wembley, when the club won their first European cup. 

An appointment is unlikely during Monday's board meeting because there are still many things to be negotiated. But the decision is nearly made and an announcement can't be delayed too long due to the scale of the task. Koeman will have to make some painful decisions, with no one safe, even veterans of the squad like Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez, while it remains to be seen what signings can be made with the club's delicate financial situation.