Postecoglou is said to have edged out rivals Graham Arnold at Central Coast Mariners and Tony Popovic from Western Sydney Wanderers to land the top job offer.

But his club are concerned they will struggle to replace him at this stage of the season and his exit threatens to upset Victory's plans and the foundations put in place by the former Roar boss.

Ex-Victory skipper Kevin Muscat is likely to move into the head coach role in the short-term at least while a hunt for a permanent replacement begins.

Postecoglou, 48, will be expected to hit the ground running, with the Socceroos tipped to confirm two friendlies for next month as World Cup preparations intensify and the squad regeneration begins.

The former Socceroo last coached at international level when he was in charge of the U20s during a seven year stint until 2007.

More to follow...