Joel Santana is close to becoming the new coach of Rio de Janeiro club Vasco da Gama, according to Globo Esporte.
The former Flamengo and Angola boss has been locked in negotiations with Vasco directors over the last few days, and is reported ahead of rival Renato Gaúcho for the São Januário hotseat.
Now, all that is missing is his signature on the contract.
"I met with him [Roberto Dinamite, the Vasco president] a short while ago, but for now I cannot reveal any more details. Who has the responsibility is the president. I cannot say anything until the day of my presentation," Joel Santana said.
According to the manager, one of the reasons he has decided to accept the challenge of trying to help Vasco return to Série A is the affection and warmth he has received from Vascaínos, as the club"s fans are known.
Saying that "without the fans we are no body, Santana added: "If I have the support of the fans and the support of God, let"s see what we can do and try to obtain the best for Vasco."
The Cruz-Maltino"s hunt for a new coach has lasted almost a week, following the resignation of Adilson Batista last Saturday. Batista quit after the club were humiliated 5-0 by Avai at home in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série B.
It was Vasco"s worst ever result at their São Januário home.
