The 36 year old Spaniard is currently with Hong Kong side Kitchee after joining them in 2009 but it is believed he has now done a deal to join Adelaide as soon as possible.

The Catalonian was a former member of Barcelona's coaching staff where he was technical director of the youth academy and he holds a Pro Licence.

It is understood he will keep caretaker coach Michael Valkanis as his assistant when he takes charge.

The relatively unknown Gombau has beaten off challenges from other contenders for the role including former Adelaide United assistant coach Phil Stubbins.

But while at Kitchee, Gombau has steered the side to the a swag of trophies, including twice winning their league in 2010/11 and 2011/12, plus the local league and FA Cups last year.

In February he was named coach of a local all-stars side Hong Kong League XI to face Korea's Busan I'Park in a special exhibition match to mark Chinese New Year.

And last year he fielded a Kitchee soccer sevens side to beat Celtic 1-0 in the final and claim the title in a competition that also included teams from Rangers, Ajax and Aston Villa.

The appointment comes after a period of turmoil at the club, including the mass resignation of the panel appointed by chairman Greg Griffin to recruit the next coach over the retention of Michael Valkanis as assistant.

"It's not been decided yet," said Gombau's Melbourne-based agent Manny Seisdedos today. "It is still up to the board and us to make a final decision.

"We're expecting an answer this week but I can't say anything more at this stage."