Roberto De Zerbi has moved a big step closer to taking over at Marseille.

And this time he will be joined by an Italian colleague who was not with him at Albion.

The Ligue 1 club announced on Monday evening that they had reached agreement with De Zerbi over what is believed to be a three-year deal.

A statement added: "The club is currently working with all stakeholders to formalise the arrival of the Italian coach, as well as that of his staff, on the bench of OM and prepare for his visit to Marseille in the coming days."

De Zerbi will get all the formalities completed before training starts next week and it is understood he will be joined by his technical director Giovanni Rossi, with whom he worked at Sassuolo.

Coaching and conditioning staff who were De Zerbi at Albion will also be heading to Marseille.

Albion will receive compensation of about £5 million.