Sven-Goran Eriksson is set to take Manchester City for training today as his appointment draws ever closer.

The 59-year-old Swede flew into Manchester Airport last night and is close to finally becoming manager at Eastlands.

The former England boss is believed to be on the verge of signing a three-year contract but cannot be officially appointed until prospective new owner Thaksin Shinawatra completes his takeover of the club.

Former Thai prime minister Thaksin will achieve that when his shareholding, which currently sits just above 65 per cent, reaches 75 per cent and the club will be taken off the Stock Exchange.

After touching down in Manchester, Eriksson was guarded but his appointment is now just a matter of time.

He said last night: "We will see tomorrow. I would prefer to speak (to the press) tomorrow."

Asked if he will be meeting representatives from City today, Eriksson added: "I think so.  If you wait until tomorrow you will know everything."

While Thaksin's takeover has been drawn out, Eriksson will be looking to act quickly once he is unveiled.

He takes over a squad that finished 14th in the Premiership - but just four points above the drop zone - and has lost key men Joey Barton and Sylvain Distin to Newcastle and Portsmouth respectively this summer.

Since previous boss Stuart Pearce's departure at the end of the campaign, City have been without a manager and the new season is now just six weeks away.

Eriksson is reported to have £50million at his disposal and will be looking to strengthen the attacking options of a team that managed just 10 goals in 19 home league matches last term.

While new arrivals on the playing staff are guaranteed, Eriksson has also reportedly asked Sweden's assistant coach Roland Andersson to be his number two.