The Covert Agent: Wellington Phoenix set to appoint Ufuk Talay as coach for next season

Wellington Phoenix is close to appointing Sydney FC assistant Ufuk Talay as their new coach for next A-League season.

The Covert Agent can reveal the 43-year-old will likely be announced as the Nix boss in the near future with the club looking to get their plans in motion for next campaign.

Current coach Mark Rudan will leave once the season is completed, having lifted Wellington to their first finals appearance since 2014-15, and is expected to join new A-League franchise Western United.

Talay is believed to be already sounding out new signings as he looks to continue the progress of Rudan, and is keen to continue an emphasis on bringing through young talent at the club.

The former Sky Blue and North Queensland Fury player has impressed alongside Sydney FC coach Corica as an assistant this season after several years managing Australian under-17 and under-20 youth sides.