Derby are expected to begin talks with John Gregory in the next 48 hours after the ex-Aston Villa manager's agent confirmed he has been approached about the vacant post at Pride Park.
The Rams, seeking a successor for Colin Todd after he was sacked two weeks ago, have moved quickly to inform Gregory's agent, Paul Stretford, of their interest in Gregory, who played for Derby in the mid-1980s.
"This morning I have been contacted by officials of Derby County and they have indicated their interest in John becoming their manager," Stretford said in a statement. "With this in mind I am hoping to organise a meeting some time within the next 48 hours".
Fallen Spanish giants Atletico Madrid had been linked with Gregory at the weekend, but the club denied there had been any contact. Gregory left Villa Park after four years in charge last Thursday, blaming a breakdown in his relationship with chairman Doug Ellis for his decision to quit the Birmingham club.
PA