Helberg set for Middlesbrough move despite delay

The Riverside Stadium is practically vibrating with excitement. Middlesbrough fans can barely contain themselves as news spreads that Kim Helberg is set to become their new manager. It follows the departure of Rob Edwards, who recently left Boro for Wolves in the Premier League.

Edwards left earlier this month, joining Wolves, who are struggling for relegation with just two points from 12 games. Since then, Boro have been relentlessly searching for a replacement.

This week, the rumours have escalated into full-blown rumours about Helberg, currently the manager of Swedish club Hammarby. Swansea City have certainly spoken in the ring, but it seems Boro have come out on top in this managerial tug-of-war. The race is on and the tension is palpable.

Work permit issue explained

So what's holding up? The pesky work permit issue, that's what. However, all the terms are in place and rumours suggest an official announcement is just around the corner. Any day now, Boro fans could get the news they've been waiting for.

Read more: Hammarby vs Rosenborg: Prediction and Match Preview

Helleberg has, touchingly, returned to Sweden this week to bid farewell to the Hammarby team and staff. If all goes to plan, he'll be enjoying the Riverside atmosphere for Tuesday's crucial clash against Coventry City. For now, however, interim head coach Adi Viveas remains at the helm, keeping the ship balanced.

Sporting director speaks out

At Hammarby, sporting director Mikael Hjelmberg has not been shy about sharing his thoughts on the unfolding drama. In a candid interview, he admitted that he is torn with the whole situation. Although nothing has been finalized yet, the club is preparing for the future without its mascot coach.

"Nothing has been done yet, but we have to look ahead and plan for life without Kim," Hjelmberg admitted. "He is in good spirits. He dropped by the office today and we had a positive conversation. He expects to go abroad soon."

Read more: Elfsborg vs Hammarby: Match Preview and Expert Prediction

"On the one hand, I am sad. We have created something special together. Kim is a brilliant, first-class coach and his loss is very important for Hammarby." But personally? I'm delighted for him. He deserves this chance at a club as historic as Middlesbrough. And don't worry - Hammarby will continue."

Compensation and salary details

In essence, Boro are reportedly prepared to pay around €460,000 in compensation to Hammarby for Helmberg's services. The 37-year-old's salary in his new home is expected to be between £960,000 and £1.2m. Not a bad salary, in my opinion.

Adding to the intrigue is that Helmberg intends to bring his trusted assistant David Cellini with him to the north-east. Meanwhile, Adi Viveash is not going anywhere - he will remain on the coaching staff. Given that this transition is happening despite the difficulties, it's fair to say that it has caught some by surprise. Could Boro be onto something grand? Only time will tell.