Former Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder prepares to receive an approach from his old club's promotion rivals

Like United, West Brom will begin next term in the Championship after being relegated from the Premier League after Allardyce, regarded within the game as being a survival specialist, failed to guide them to safety.

Having twice led United to promotion before vacating his position in March, Wilder is set to feature on a shortlist of names being compiled by majority shareholder Lai Guonchuan following Allatdyce’s decision to decline his invitation to remain at the helm.

Wilder’s achievements at Bramall Lane, where he guided United from the third to the first tier of English football during his first three years in post, mean he is likely to be in high-demand this summer.

Burnley where United’s one-time prospective owners ALK Capital took control five months ago, could be another potential destination if Sean Dyche opts for a new challenge. The Americans, who struck a deal with former co-owner Kevin McCabe before his High Court defeat to former business partner HRH Prince Abdullah bin Musa’ad bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, made their admiration for Wilder clear during negotiations with the Scarborough based businessman.

After yo-yoing between divisions in recent years, West Brom will be attracted by the fact United finished ninth under Wilder last term before injuries and internal politics began to impact upon their results.

United hope to unveil his permanent replacement following Sunday’s game against Burnley, after placing Paul Heckingbottom in caretaker charge.