Neil McDonald - the bookies' favourite for the Carlisle United manager's job - is set for a position at ANOTHER League Two club, the News & Starunderstands.
Despite mounting speculation linking McDonald with a return to Brunton Park, it is believed he is the subject of strong interest from one of their fourth-tier rivals.
Sources say he could be in line for a No2 role elsewhere, rather than the top job at United.
The new development comes as McDonald returned to the top of the betting as the Carlisle managerial wait goes on.
One bookmaker even temporarily suspended betting on the 52-year-old last night. He is currently odds-on favourite with SkyBet and BetVictor.
But it is understood speculation that he is on the brink of being appointed by the Blues is wide of the mark.
The News & Star understands McDonald - who managed United for one season and one game from 2006/7, and was courted by the club before the appointment of Keith Curle in 2014 - is among the names who has been considered by the Blues.
But he is not believed to be one of the main frontrunners.
The former Blackpool boss sparked speculation over a possible return when he appeared in the directors' box during United games towards the end of last season.
Carlisle have not commented on the identity of any of the candidates for the post.
That includes former favourite David Hopkin, who has emerged as a strong contender for the Shrewsbury job after their boss Paul Hurst confirmed his move to Ipswich.
Livingston boss Hopkin, currently on holiday, has been given time to decide on his next move by the newly-promoted Scottish Premiership club's directors.
United have said the process of finding Curle's replacement remains ongoing.